TJ Warren “ Phoenix’s Rising Sun”

NBA Style: TJ will undoubtedly benefit from the open space and the up-tempo style in the NBA. The NBA is all about creativity and maximizing possessions, for example the Phoenix Suns were ranked 8th in Pace at 98.2 offensive possessions per 48 minutes. Since the shot clock in the NBA is only 24 seconds this means teams must be quick on the attack and must create their own shot more often than in the college game. TJ excels at using his creativity and craftiness to score on a variety of floaters, mid-range shots, and the use of the euro-step in the open court.

Skill Set: TJ has the unique ability to create his own shot and the ability to be efficient offensively without the need to have a play called for him. While at State TJ was virtually unstoppable when he was isolated and guarded 1 on 1, most often this resulted in 2 points. Another skill that will aid TJ in his development is the fact that he has had to use a variety of shots and creativity to score at the college level. Rarely did we see TJ use raw athleticism to score over opponents this past season. However he used great body control and his size to score in the paint and in transition. TJ possesses enough athletic ability to score in the open court; coupled with his wise use of angles he will continue to be a terror in the open court at the NBA level. Lastly I want to point out how skilled TJ is around the rim. At times it seemed like there was a magnet around the rim for TJ, he has an innate ability to score around the basket. We saw him score on put backs, offensive rebounds, post ups, floaters, mid-range pull-ups, dunks, and in transition. By having all of these tools in the bag TJ will benefit the Suns.

Why Phoenix: The Suns are a young up-and-coming team that really out played early season expectations last year. New coach Jeff Hornacek brought an improved offensive scheme that the players bought into. He allowed his players to play in a way that catered to their strengths, for example he used a two point guard line in order to have his best players on the court. TJ will benefit by playing with two of the premiere point guards in the league, Eric Bledsoe and Goran Dragic. Both of these players demand hedging and doubling off of the pick and rolls because of their ability to get into the paint and finish. This will lead to TJ having the opportunity to score on the other side with a 3 on 2 advantage.

Improvement: There are a few areas where TJ will have to improve in order to have a sustained NBA career. In my opinion he will have to develop a more consisting jumper from the three-point arc. Three point field goals are a big part of the Suns offensive philosophy, the Suns attempted 25.1 threes per game. Another area of improvement is in his playmaking ability. While at State TJ was called upon to be more of a scorer rather than a facilitator; however, in Phoenix he will not be the first option. He must be willing to make the extra pass in order to get the best shot available.

Prediction: The sky is the limit for TJ! I honestly believe he will have long and prosperous career in the association. He has a variety of skills that are unique for someone of his size that will help him thrive in the up-tempo offensive environment of the NBA. Work ethic and desire have never been questioned in regards to TJ and I know he will continue to hone his skills and make his weaknesses become strengths. All TJ wants to do is play ball, he will do everything necessary to make sure he continues to live his dream for as long as he can!