Notes on Brandon Ashley and Jabari Bird

Ian Powers wrote this after viewing Brandon Ashley/Oakland Soldiers this weekend:

"This kid has transformed his game from strictly being a low post player to one who can shoot it to three and face up and put it on the floor. He is 6'10" and still seems to be growing. He is very long and has huge, soft hands that allow him to catch and finish in traffic. He has nice form on his jump shot which bodes well for him in the future as he continues to expand his game. He is a very active shot blocker and is active on both backboards. Had some trouble staying on the floor this weekend due to foul trouble. Needs to add strength and bulk to his frame, but he his physique has gone through a good transformation already. Easily one of the top 5 players in his class and could quite possibly end up being the player with the most upside."

ESPN's Paul Biancardi also wrote about Ashley, plus Jabari Bird:

"He has always been a high-level prospect and is now becoming a high-end productive player. Ashley is a super athlete who runs the floor with long strides and blazing speed. Offensively, his developing skill level to drive the ball from the high post is smooth for his size. Defensively, he is an adept shot blocker from the weak side or in transition, where he chases down his opponent."

Here's Biancardi on Bird:

"He is an explosive athlete who thrives in the transition game or half-court set. Bird scores the basketball with grace, and his pull-up jumper and 3-point shot are legitimate weapons. He also can beat guys off the bounce and get to the rim, but he must make a greater effort to not allow dribble penetration on the defensive end. California and Arizona are his only two offers to this point, but Washington, Washington State, Louisville, Marquette, Texas and Providence are showing strong interest."