In late June of this year, CBS Sports’ writer Reid Forgave came out with his first NBA mock draft. This featured highly touted player like DeAndre Ayton and Michael Porter Jr., but it also included the surprise entry of a Temple Owl. Forgave projected Quinton Rose to be drafted by the Raptors with the 26th pick in the draft. While this was obviously premature, it turned heads toward the Owls’ star guard – and so far, he has responded well.
Rose first began turning heads when he was selected to perform in the USA Men’s U19 World Cup. He was described as one of the surprise standout performers and become one of the final 18 players. Unfortunately, he was cut from the team, but that did not stop him from turning a few heads.
Now, Rose is carrying that momentum into the season. Currently, Rose is averaging 18.8 points and 6.2 rebounds, while shooting 51% from the field. In 3 of his first 5 games this season he has scored 20 or more points. It is clear that Rose has made a point to improve his offensive skillset and particularly his jumper.
When asked about his attention to shooting this offseason he said, “I got a lot of 3’s up and a lot of midrange jump shots… I would do a certain amount (of shots) off-the-dribble, off of cuts, and off of screens…”
Rose also credited a large part of this improvement to his aggressive play style on offense. Whether that be driving to the hoop or taking a jumper, Rose says he just wants to make plays for the team.
With this improvement and success comes the possibility of getting drafted. While recent mock drafts from CBS Sports, Sports Illustrated and SB Nation have not projected Rose as a first-round pick, it’s hard to see him slipping out if he continues this success.
Oh, and as a final side-note, it may interest teams to know that Rose is still growing. When Marc Narducci of the Philadelphia Inquirer asked Rose if he had grown, Rose responded, “Yes I have… I’m 6’7 now.” Without the hair, of course.
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