Patrick Mandel

Strengths: Intriguing player with a naturally lean frame but uses it to the best of his abilities especially defensively...Very long arms which help him get more than his fair share of deflections each game...Wrecks defensive havoc with his anticipation and stealing ability; even strips players on the ball where he exerts excellent defensive pressure...Constantly moving which makes him hard to target both offensively and defensively...Effortless shooter, very natural in this area. Gets his shot off quick...Very good spot-up shooter as of now, dangerous from three point territory (42% at time of report). Has the potential to become an excellent shooter...Very quick in regards to the shooting guard position, has point guard quickness helped with the fact that he doesn't carry much mass meaning he can run quicker...Deadly transition game player. Converts many fastbreak opportunities with impressive dunks...Athleticism, shooting and defensive combination are extremely intriguing; has a lot of clay to mold...Above average athleticism...Natural talent who can put up numbers effortlessly...

Weaknesses: Doesn't exactly play paced but oftentimes renders himself invisible for the benefit of the team; Texas Tech senior Reljo Marin currently does the bulk of the scoring...Although very unselfish, not a natural or gifted passer. Can pass the ball to help the offense move, but won't create opportunities for others...Mid-range game needs some work...Tends to fade in the clutch, has a bit of a soft rep mentally especially with late game cold shooting...Somewhat of a concern is his weight. Naturally lean player meaning he won't be able to put on more weight with his broad shoulders, so he can be pushed around by more aggressive and stronger wings defensively, although his quickness and long arms may make up for that...Sometimes lacks a killer instinct. Doesn't feel much pressure...Doesn't like to carry the scoring load...Not entirely an all-around player, sometimes he can fade with regards to all statistical categories...

Notes: Was one of Bob Knight's more prized recruits, although he initially wanted to give his scholarship to now current Wisconsin player Elton Smith, who fits Knight's mold of strong defensive guards more...Hails from Anchorage, Alaska....Has had a surprising impact in his freshman year as he was expected to take the backseat to Texas Tech star Reljo Marin rather than play alongside him.