Comparing Kings' Bagley to Chris Webber's Preacher of 'Uncle Drew'
It's too bad that Chris Webber never escaped the shadow of his collegiate mistakes because the 6-foot-9 forward was once one of the most dynamic and charismatic superstars in the NBA.
Webber plays Preacher in the upcoming film "Uncle Drew," a geriatric baller in search of blacktop redemption. Much like Webber's memorable 15-year NBA career, Preacher has something to prove each time he steps on the court.
Duke's Marvin Bagley III was picked second overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 2018 NBA Draft. While other top prospects withheld their medicals, Bagley was happy to launch his career anywhere, and he saw an opportunity to return the Kings back to glory days not seen since Webber was the main man.
Bagley stood toe to toe with NBA players as a high school prospect at the Drew League last summer, so it's no wonder that he dominated in college as a freshman. Bagley was a scoring machine from the elbow area, where he could either take his man into the post, stretch the floor with a smooth elbow jumper, or attack off the dribble and crash the glass for second-chance opportunities.
Defense is still a challenge for Bagley, but that's secondary to the threat he poses to put up 20 points and 10 rebounds nightly. His athleticism and motor will overwhelm opponents while on offense, and there's no reason to believe a 7-footer with quick feet wouldn't be able to do the same on the other end as well.
Webber was a clever defender and a superb passer, which made him an all-around force. It helped that he played under a creative coach in Rick Adelman, who brought the best out of Webber within an attractive offense that nearly produced a Finals appearance. (Some shady officiating saw an end to that.) Bagley isn't a willing passer, but perhaps he could be compelled to make plays for others under the right coach.
| Player (freshman) | PTS | TRB | AST | STL | BLK |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chris Webber | 15.5 | 10.0 | 2.2 | 1.6 | 2.5 |
| Marvin Bagley | 21.0 | 11.1 | 1.5 | 0.8 | 0.9 |
There's also a lesson to be learned off the floor. Webber launched a media career off the backs of his infectious smile and laid-back attitude, and Bagley looks to hold similar aspirations as he joined No. 1 pick Deandre Ayton and others in Puma's return to basketball. A little charisma goes a long way, especially in a small market like Sacramento.
(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)