Theo Pinson

McDonald’s All-American Recap:

Pinson mostly played the perimeter in Chicago, and for the most part he performed well. He showcased an improved handle staying under control on the perimeter, and continued to facilitate from the high post.

Still, his handle and jump shot still need work. Although he was under control for the most part, he still danced around on a few possessions. And his jump shot was nonexistent yet again.

Terrific athlete and probably the most versatile player in the high school ranks, but Pinson’s long-term projection is contingent on his jump shot. An improved jumper will give him a more defined role, and will open up driving lanes for him to utilize his athletic gifts. Overall, though, it was encouraging to see that Pinson’s handle is coming along.

McDonald’s All-American Preview:

Pinson is one of the most versatile players in his class; a multifaceted forward who does a bit of everything at a high level. He can facilitate offense from the wing or foul line, slash to the hoop, and defend multiple positions. What impresses me most though is incredible passing ability. He has the vision and feel of a point guard, although he struggles to handle the ball. Pinson can facilitate and make plays, slashing his way into the lane and consistently making the correct “basketball play.”

Explosive athlete in the open court, either running the wings or grabbing a defensive rebound and starting the break himself.

With a limited handle and inconsistent jumpshot, though, it’s hard to evaluate Pinson in the half-court. What position will he play in college? He’s too small to play inside, but he doesn’t have the jump shot to be a perimeter threat. His rebounding and defensive versatility are valuable attributes, but developing a jump shot is imperative for Pinson’s future.

Elite 24 Showcase 2013 (New York, NY)

Observation 5: Theo Pinson may struggle to find a position in college

Pinson is one of the most versatile players in his class; a multifaceted forward who does a bit of everything at a high level. He can facilitate offense for his teammates, defend multiple positions, and has the length and speed to be a good slasher.

That being said, with a below-average handle and inconsistent (at best) jumpshot, it’s hard to evaluate Pinson in the half-court. Where will he play in college? He isn’t a good enough shooter or ball-handler to contribute from the perimeter (small forward), and he’s too small to play down low.

I’m not counting Pinson out, because he has a great feel for the game and looks like he was made to play basketball. Plus, he competes at a very high level. I’m just saying, he might face challenges transitioning to the college game.

Nike Global Challenge 2013 (Washington D.C.):

Pinson took over the first half of the Championship game, and was an absolute joy to watch. He finished with 12 points, 6 assists and 6 rebounds, and proved he may be the most versatile player in his class. Pinson can facilitate and make plays, slashing his way into the lane and consistently making the correct “basketball play.”

The thing is, it’s difficult to evaluate Pinson at the next level. He’s not a good enough ball handler or shooter to be a shooting guard in college, and he’s a bit too skinny to play small forward.

Still, he has great feel for the game and a basketball player’s makeup. What impressed me most about Pinson was his incredible passing ability – some of his set-ups for teammates were a work of art. Plus, he competes at a high level and is constantly encouraging and communicating with his teammates. Justin Jackson, Joel Berry and Pinson will make North Carolina one of the most talented teams in the country in 2014.

Nike Peach Jam 2013 (North Augusta, SC): Pinson is a lethal scorer, with great feel for the game and a basketball player’s makeup. Athletic, good shooting touch and an elite passer. He can compete with anyone because of his exceptional athleticism, and has the skill package to dominate a game. Between Justin Jackson, Theo Pinson and Joel Berry, North Carolina could be one of the most talented teams in the country in 2014.