2018 Draft Prospect: Yuta Watanabe

[Boomersgold]

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P6XDOTzQxF0/VKyuicyF1vI/AAAAAAAARsU/TyPnBpvQjLc/s1600/IMG_7197.jpg



Position: SF


Height: 6-9


Weight: 205


Date of Birth: 10/23/1994


Team: George Washington


Country: Japan


RealGM (https://basketball.realgm.com/player/Yuta-Watanabe/Summary/53707)

[Boomersgold]

I've watched quite a bit of college basketball these past few years (following international prospects) and Yuta Watanabe caught my attention. The Spurs desperately need a rotation SF, so Watanabe fits the bill perfectly. NBA teams regularly attended GW games to scout him and his teammate last year, Tyler Cavanaugh, currently plays for the Hawks. Watanabe's a 2017-18 draft prospect (likely a second rounder if he gets drafted) but will no doubt get a summer league invitation if he doesn't given his ability and NBA connections.

Height: 6-9
Weight: 205
Position: SF (but has played the 2 in a big lineup)
Hometown: Kagawa, Japan

Quick notes

* One of the best defenders in college basketball. 2017-2018 A10 Defensive player of the year; two-time All-defensive team selection.


* Very versatile on both ends. Has played the 2 (in a bigger lineup) and the 4. Can guard 1-4. Guarded opposing team's best player (inc. point guards) for 40 minutes.


* Can score inside and out. Led team in threes made.


* Athletic and quick. An anti-Kyle Anderson. Will attack the rim. Great shot blocker.


* Terrific handles for his size. Known to take it coast to coast.


* Only 4th Japanese to ever play D1 basketball. Has FIBA experience at a young age; played against Parker and Diaw. Will lead Japan at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.


* Needs to gain a bit of muscle.


* Selfless. Doesn't have an ego and won't quit on his team


The Spurs have a propensity for finding and developing international gems that fit the system. Yuta Watanabe could be one of them.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISut6Y-qPvY


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40wsoXrDnjI


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55VatJjgkfs

[BackHome]

Watched his tape not bad for late second round pick or camp invite has some potential

[Boomersgold]

Watched his tape not bad for late second round pick or camp invite has some potential

Won't find too many players at his height as versatile as he is. 6-9 can handle the ball, score inside and out and defend multiple positions. Not saying he'll ever be anywhere as good as Durant offensively, but that's what makes Durant so good (his versatility at his size). Defensively, Watanabe's a beast. I can see him being a Toni Kukoc-like player or at the very least a great 3 and D guy

[spurraider21]

he'll be 24 when the season starts... and he's not a very good outside shooter

[Boomersgold]

he'll be 24 when the season starts... and he's not a very good outside shooter

His lockdown defense and length more than make up for it. How many 6-9 players have the quickness and coordination to defend guards for 40 minutes? He's not a one trick pony like a Korver. If we're talking about him as a 3 and D player, he's a better shooter than many of the 3 and D players in the league like an Andre Roberson or a Demarre Carroll. His game isn't just shooting threes but he's better than average at it (shot better than Jayson Tatum).

Him being 24 just means he's had more experience than the one and dones. Played FIBA and spent time in college developing his game and working on his body. Keep in mind he'd be a second round pick.

[xellos88330]

Worth a look in the second for sure.

[Boomersgold]

he'll be 24 when the season starts... and he's not a very good outside shooter

Found this video of his as a freshman. Not a three-point specialist but more than capable of hitting them. Made 7 threes


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srbuBvnp_U8

[BackHome]

Found this video of his as a freshman. Not a three-point specialist but more than capable of hitting them. Made 7 threes


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srbuBvnp_U8

He needs to add about 15pds of muscle but to me I want to know how is laterial foot speed is? If you can not move your feet fast enough you can’t be a good one on one defender.

[Boomersgold]

He needs to add about 15pds of muscle but to me I want to know how is laterial foot speed is? If you can not move your feet fast enough you can’t be a good one on one defender.

That was his freshman year. He's worked hard since then to develop his body. His game is predicated on quickness so gaining too much weight would be detrimental to his game 988904868353101825
Really quick in both directions (lateral and baseline to baseline) but his main advantage is his length. Conference Defensive player of the year because he could guard almost every position and was always assigned to guard the best player from the opposing team. He was regularly used at the top of the 1-3-1 zone (usually reserved for quick, athletic guards). I think he's massively underrated

Here he is guarding 22ppg Davidson guard Jack Gibbs in 2016

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TnA0MdG2eQ

[Boomersgold]

Yuta Watanabe was one of the 40 players (and the only one from Asia) invited to the NBA Global Camp (starts tomorrow). It's basically the NBA draft combine for international prospects. The workout will be streamed online for those that want to watch.

Source: http://nbaglobalcamp.com/

He's also worked out for the Nets and the Wizards and expects at least 6 more workouts before the draft. Really hope the Spurs at least work him out with the lack of depth at the SF spot. Yuta's athletic and versatile enough to play multiple positions and actually plays defense (unlike Bertans or Anderson).

[Biggems]

If we are able to keep Kawhi and Danny, drafting this kid would be huge.

We can run out a lineup of LMA, Watanabe, Leonard, Green, and Murray against GS and Houston. It would make for a nice defensive unit.

In the first we should go for Harrison.

Harrison and Watanabe would be a sweet draft for us.

[CGD]

Patricio Garino 2.0?

[Boomersgold]

Patricio Garino 2.0?

A more athletic and longer Garino. They played on the same team. Both very versatile. Probably the only negative thing I have to say about him is that he doesn't try to force anything. He does the little things which don't show up on the stat sheet

[pad300]

Camp invite. He is not going to get drafted...

[ace3g]

1003244784511791104

[Boomersgold]

Yuta Watanabe at the NBA Global Camp (vs the best international draft eligible prospects). Showed the ability to drive and shoot. Also showed his versatility with his ball handling and full court defense on point guards (impressive at 6-9). Watanabe plays both ends of the floor.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9IRLhX7HH4

[ace3g]

Game reminds me of Joe Ingles.

[BackHome]

He will get drafted by either Houston, GS, LA, Sacto, or New York.

[spurraider21]

there's definitely a good amount of intrigue here. but he's going to have to be a much better shooter than he is to find a role imo

i do like that he can put the ball on the floor, though

[objective]

I'm sold on him for the second round. He's actually a month younger than Blossomgame was at draft time, and even though he played in a small conference he's more well rounded, nice versatility.

[spurraider21]

I'm sold on him for the second round. He's actually a month younger than Blossomgame was at draft time, and even though he played in a small conference he's more well rounded, nice versatility.
i still dont know what blossomgame is supposed to be. gerald wallace? darius miles?

[objective]

i still dont know what blossomgame is supposed to be. gerald wallace? darius miles?

No idea.

Not expecting Blossomgame to be an NBA player.

[Boomersgold]

there's definitely a good amount of intrigue here. but he's going to have to be a much better shooter than he is to find a role imo

i do like that he can put the ball on the floor, though

He's a better than average three point shooter (36% on 150+ attempts) and excels at the mid range. The other facets of his game more than make up for it (especially his defense). Look at Kawhi and how he turned out. Elite defender who could handle the ball but had a questionable three point shot (20% from three). Watanabe's a better shooter and probably more versatile at 6-9 coming out of college. Not saying he'll be anywhere near as good as Kawhi but there's always a place in the league for players with his skillset. The NBA is moving towards being a league dominated by big guards. Ben Simmons is one and he can't shoot to save his life.

[objective]

measurements from NBA Global Camp

http://nbaglobalcamp.com/global-camp-measurements/

6-8.0 barefoot, 6-9.0 in shoes. One of the few guys to wear shoes that only give an additional 1.0 inch instead of the usual 1.25-1.75. However, Kubolka's shoe height was only a +0.5, that dude must be balling in loafers

6-10 wingspan, 8-9 standing reach

29.5 standing jump, 36.5 max vert

[duncan2150]

Stangind jump and max vert are not bad but average. I think Watanabe will need to add some bulk to suceed in the league. He's pretty thin actually.

[Boomersgold]

Stangind jump and max vert are not bad but average. I think Watanabe will need to add some bulk to suceed in the league. He's pretty thin actually.

Max vert is actually around 37 inches. He's nursing a minor ankle injury. I believe he said he's close to 100% in the interviews. Too much bulk would affect his quickness though which is his main advantage.

[Boomersgold]

Found another highlight video showcasing his strengths (defense + versatility). Might want to turn down the sound for this one


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYyKXctLdhY

[spurraider21]

he has a little saric to his game

[Ellsworth]

Draft Workouts: Yuta Watanabe (https://www.nba.com/pacers/news/japan-watching-watanabe-chases-nba-dream)

Former George Washington Star Attempting to Become Second Japanese-Born Player to Play in NBA

Yuta Watanabe is far from a household name in America. In fact, only the most ardent college basketball fans might know the 6-9 guard, who spent four years in relative anonymity playing for a George Washington team that never finished better than fifth in the Atlantic 10.
But in his home country of Japan, Watanabe is a really big deal. How big?
His nickname is "The Chosen One."

When he worked out for the Wizards last month, "a swath of reporters" from Japan were on hand to track his every move.
There were no Japanese reporters present at his pre-draft workout for the Pacers on Wednesday morning, but make no mistake, they are watching him closely.
Watanabe is attempting to become just the second Japanese-born player in NBA history. 5-9 point guard Yuta Tabuse was the first, though he appeared in just four games for the Phoenix Suns in 2004.

"A lot of people care about what I'm doing," Watanabe said on Wednesday. "And hopefully I can make them happy."

While he likely won't be a first-round pick in next week's NBA Draft, Watanabe has the physical tools to make it in the NBA.
At the recent NBA Global Camp, he was measured at 6-9 with a 6-10 wingspan and recorded a 36.5-inch vertical jump.
Despite his size, Watanabe played primarily the guard position in college. He averaged 16.3 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.6 blocks per game as a senior, while shooting 36.4 percent from 3-point range and 80.7 percent from the free throw line.
His size and athleticism allowed him to be a menace on the defensive end and he was voted the Atlantic 10's Defensive Player of the Year as a senior.
With those measurables, Watanabe would seem to have all the tools to succeed in the modern NBA, which places a high priority on players who can knock down shots and guard multiple positions.

"My strength is my versatility, both offensively and defensively," Watanabe said Wednesday. "I can dribble, I can shoot, I can pass. On the defensive end, I can guard 1-4."

Still, Watanabe admitted that he must get stronger to be able to play heavy minutes in the NBA. He weighed in at just 191.6 pounds at the NBA Global Camp.
Watanabe has represented his home country in international competition for a number of years, including Olympic qualifying in the summer of 2016. But four years ago, he made a bold decision to travel across the Pacific Ocean and enroll in college. He was just the fourth Japanese-born student athlete to play NCAA Division I men's basketball, according to George Washington athletics.

"When I came here, I couldn't speak any English," Watanabe said. "That was challenging, but I enjoyed the last four years. As a person (and) as a player, I think I developed a lot."

Watanabe is hopeful that his experience playing against NCAA competition has made him better prepared to play in the NBA. He has followed the league for years and lists Kobe Bryant as one of his basketball idols.

"The NBA has been my dream since I was a kid," he said. "...I'm going to do whatever it takes and we'll see what happens."

[xellos88330]

This kid intrigues me a bit. I think he may be worth a closer look. I don't see superstar, but a reliable role player willing to do the little things. These days, the Spurs really need guys like that.

[Chinook]

I could totally see GS drafting him and then everybody acting like he was always a great prospect. I like what I see, and I've learned to trust the OP's scouting. I like his fire and willingness to take big shots. Hate his inclination to step inside and take an off-balanced two. But what can you do? 49 isn't too high.

[Boomersgold]

With the news that Kawhi wants out, Spurs need forwards who are elite defenders and can play both ends of the floor. Know anyone that might fit the bill? Shot selection can be improved but the important thing is that he's got all the fundamentals down pat unlike an Andre Roberson who can play defense too but shoots his free throws at lower than 40%.

Recently worked out for the Suns where he tied the record for the most full-court laps in 3 minutes (the infamous 'three-minute' drill).

Source: https://www.nba.com/suns/draft/2018-suns-pre-draft-workouts-june-14-2018#gref

[objective]

I'm in!

Team Yuta

[objective]

#96 on Stepien writer Hoy's big board

https://www.thestepien.com/2018/06/19/jackson-hoys-final-2018-big-board/


Watanabe has excellent size for a wing player at 6-foot-9 with a 6-foot-10 wingspan and was named Atlantic 10 Defensive Player of the Year last season. He also has an intriguing offensive skillset, able to put the ball on the floor and pass a bit with some solid shooting ability. He’s never shot the ball all that well from 3-point range, but he shot above 80 percent from the free throw line during 3 out of his 4 seasons at George Washington. Watanabe is skinny and on the older side, so it wouldn’t be surprising if he never materializes into anything, but big wings who can defend and shoot are always interesting.

[ace3g]

Well he went undrafted, see if he joins Spurs SL.

[BackHome]

I think he is on the Nets if not mistaken.

[objective]

Looking pretty good in summer league

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKkDzkkeAM4


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5b7PbEPRoRY

[ace3g]

1016547060215054336

[BackHome]

We lost K-Y, Green, Parker, Anderson, Paul, Costello
We added DeR, Walker, Cunigham, Jacob, Belli

Hillard I think might still be on a two way contract not sure we need him with all the guards we have now. I wouldn’t mind him and Metu getting two way contracts

[jyra]

We lost K-Y, Green, Parker, Anderson, Paul, Costello
We added DeR, Walker, Cunigham, Jacob, Belli

Hillard I think might still be on a two way contract not sure we need him with all the guards we have now. I wouldn’t mind him and Metu getting two way contracts

Watanabe already signed a two way contract with Memphis.

[Boomersgold]

Had a pretty good summer league. Showed a lot of promise. Disappointed the Spurs didn't at least take a look at him.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kr3xNuu3Loo

[D-Robinson 50 fan]

I hope he plays well. I’m also disappointing The Spurs didn’t try to get him

[Play Boban]

?:cry

[Boomersgold]

Watanabe made a clutch shot in a preseason game against the Pacers. Displayed some nice handles and shooting touch. A few blocks.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mDdx7MD9mQ

[SAGirl]

The Japanese media followed him to Memphis and he had an area specially dedicated for his interviews to his local Japanese audience. It gave the Grizz some buzz in preseason and I am sure the franchise benefits from the international fandom.

He looked intriguing and he’s on a 2 way deal so perhaps he will play a few NBA games this year. The Grizzlies like him a lot.

[SAGirl]

Watanabe is playing well in the Gleague. Looks like an NBA player.
https://gleague.nba.com/games/20181121/FWNMHU/ 32 pts, 6/10 on 3s, 4 blocks.

[Boomersgold]

Watanabe is playing well in the Gleague. Looks like an NBA player.
https://gleague.nba.com/games/20181121/FWNMHU/ 32 pts, 6/10 on 3s, 4 blocks.

Three point shooting and defense. What the Spurs desperately need. Really wished they at least signed him to a two way deal.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5f5nCPJx9s

[pad300]

You can trade for 2 way contracts (although you need to match the value), and he'd be the only actual SF on the team... Can anyone think of a good trade? Would the Grizz accept one of our two-way guys and cash?

[SAGirl]

You can trade for 2 way contracts (although you need to match the value), and he'd be the only actual SF on the team... Can anyone think of a good trade? Would the Grizz accept one of our two-way guys and cash?
The Grizz like him and I don’t see any incentive for them to help the Spurs shore up the one hole they have this season. You’d have to tempt them with something they want. Overall not worth it for the Spurs bc if they are going to trade an asset it would be better to get someone more proven.

[BackHome]

I really liked him after watching a couple of his college games i still don’t understand why RC knowing we would have no SF would have turned over every stone to find guys to invite to our camp for either getting a two way contract or signed to the big league. But he got shit I mean what guys did he bring in for Summer league?

[JakeCuenca]

He looks good. Wont be worse than Cunningham and belliy

[objective]

I really liked him after watching a couple of his college games i still don’t understand why RC knowing we would have no SF would have turned over every stone to find guys to invite to our camp for either getting a two way contract or signed to the big league. But he got shit I mean what guys did he bring in for Summer league?

It just doesn't make sense. Every one with a clue, hell, people without a clue, could see they desperately needed 3-&-D candidates, hustle play prospects, potential guys. And then RC goes and gets some over 30 scrubs with injuries.

[RC_Drunkford]

It just doesn't make sense. Every one with a clue, hell, people without a clue, could see they desperately needed 3-&-D candidates, hustle play prospects, potential guys. And then RC goes and gets some over 30 scrubs with injuries.

that just shows you how retarded PATFO really are. A lot of their mistakes are totally obvious even just watching the team play from your couch at home

[Boomersgold]

Yuta with 24 points, 7 boards at the G-League showcase in front of NBA GMs in Vegas. Spurs no doubt got a glimpse of him.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NI05xwGs4SI

[apalisoc_9]

Watch Ujiri Sign him.

[objective]

I don't think other teams can sign a guy already on a two-way can they?

[SAGirl]

He’s part of the Grizzlies roster so I would think not this season.

[xellos88330]

The more I watch of this guy, the more I hope he is available next season.

[Boomersgold]

No idea how to embed videos anymore with the new site layout but Yuta Watanabe got some extended minutes vs the Thunder. Had 10 points, 5 rebounds off the bench. Showing his abilities as a point forward


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3TrqLLJTXkE

[pad300]

Pick 2 of 4 : Cunningham, Qpon, Yuta, Bruno Caboclo...

Is the PATFO's veteran fetish getting out of hand?

[BackHome]

Props to Boomergold for finding this guy I started to follow him after you posted and have come to really like this kid. It pisses me off that drunk RC and Poop didn’t invite a whole bunch of SF to camp and draft them for G League but Nooooo they go and sign two guys who will probably be out of the league next year. I think this kid would have helped us a little this year and would be a great bench player down the line.

[Boomersgold]

Watanabe with 23 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists in a 1st round win of the G-League playoffs. Literally played point guard the whole night at 6-8. Still hoping the Spurs somehow get him.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xAfIdfvJTpA

[spurraider21]

lord knows we could have used a plus defender at that size/position all season

[BackHome]

I would trade Raptors pick and Metu for this kid

[Boomersgold]

Yuta drops 20 and 9 on Utah. Takes on the Spurs today so Spurs fans tuning in will get a good look at his versatility


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G37VNq9YnmA

[Boomersgold]

Yuta Watanabe 40 points on 14-20 shooting (8-11 from 3), 5 boards. This guy's been balling in the G-League. The Spurs need a forward and he's better than whoever our 15th player is.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iyOdgMf_hEs&feature=emb_title

[RC_Drunkford]

Seems to be a better shooter than Lyles

[Boomersgold]

Yuta Watanabe with 11 points, 4 boards vs the Spurs


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLkpEXNV0GA

[SAGirl]

This guy finally got an NBA contract (not a prospect contract-Gleague deal) from Toronto. Good for him.

[objective]

Yuta dumping on Spurs