Going undrafted isn't really a damning reality these days. Starring overseas, in Summer League, the G League, or on a 2Way deal are all viable paths to success as a pro.
CHI's Antonio Blakeney, Bulls' 1st 2Way player, is beginning to showcase his skills after re-joining the "majors." A. Blakeney went undrafted despite a couple solid, yet slightly underwhelming* seasons at LSU - it was clear, even heading into the draft, he's a player capable of generating his own offense: a valuable trait in the league.
Bereft of shot creators, CHI has been searching for someone to put the D on its heels & open up lanes to attack. Last night v. LAL, Blakeney provided instant offense: scoring 15 pts in just 8 first-half minutes.
During one stretch, he scored 11 straight for CHI - the output is impressive, though his variety is even more so:
- fadeaway J to left (late 1Q) - go-to move?
- transition J (late 1Q);
- one dribble, J over J. Randle (mismatch, early 2Q) -- uses athleticism for nice lift, releases Js at last minute (difficult to contest)
- one dribble, pull-up 3 over J. Randle (draw foul, early 2Q); 9 pts (early 2Q)
- hanging J off straight drive (early 1Q); 11 straight pts!
- POSTER on J. Randle (early 2Q)
As CHI continues this stretch without Zach LaVine (ACL recovery) & David Nwaba (ankle), A. Blakeney's the beneficiary of PT off the bench - can he build upon his strengths (dribble penetration, outside shooting, rebounding) while improving as a passer, play initiator & defender?
The G League already seems a step down in competition** - look for Blakeney to stay w/ CHI & continue to grow.
*5 star prospect outta HS, LSU did not qualify for NCAA Tournament either year
**2 weeks into the season, already has 35 pt. & 44-pt. games to his credit