Dalen Terry could have been a leading scorer and key player for the Arizona Wildcats next season. Instead, the guard decided that he is ready to take his talents to the NBA, where he is hoping to grow and develop further.
Dalen Terry 2022 NBA Draft Profile
College Career
In his sophomore season, Terry averaged 8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.2 steals. He pretty much doubled his numbers in scoring and assists since he first came to Arizona in his freshman season. Terry shot a decent 50.2% on field goals, 36.4% from behind the arc, and 73.6% from the free-throw line.
As a reliable, supporting player, Terry contributed to the Wildcat’s successful season. He finished sixth in steals/game in the Pac-12 and ninth in steals. In the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament, Terry put up his career-best 17 points, proving his value to the team. The guard also recorded a double-double in his sophomore season by scoring 13 points and securing 11 rebounds against Washington. In the same game, Terry contributed 8 assists, almost making it a triple-double. In recognition of his work on the defensive end, Terry was named to the Pac-12 All-Defensive Team in the 2021-22 season.
Strengths
Offensively, Terry’s biggest strength is his passing ability. He is patient and unselfish, which allows him to easily find his open teammates and deliver excellent assists. Off the ball, Terry is incredibly fast, which makes him a real threat in fast-break situations. Terry is a solid catch-and-shoot player from several spots on the floor, but he is also not afraid to move toward the basket. Here, he shows a good feel for the game and good eyes for open spots, especially back door cuts.
Defensively, Terry is a very versatile player. He can guard several positions and shows quick hands and reflexes. This allows him to patiently anticipate passes and then get in their way, as well as to steal the ball from good ball handlers.
For most of his college career, Terry flew under the radar as some of his teammates were the focal point of attention, but he impressed scouts in the draft process and showcases. Terry definitely has the skill set to grow into the role of a solid rotation player.
Weaknesses
Offensively, Terry is already excellent at facilitating the ball and giving his teammates opportunities to score. Now, he needs to improve his ability to create shots for himself off the dribble. As a guard, Terry should not be afraid to show off and improve his ball-handling a little more. Elite handles combined with his passing ability would make him a solid option as a backup ball handler.
Furthermore, Terry is rather tall, which benefits him on offense, but it would not hurt him to put on some extra muscle. This way, he would be able to effectively guard players in the key and add to his defensive value.
NBA Comparison
Terry’s stats show a resemblance to Draymond Green’s, who averaged 8.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, 5.4 assists and 1.4 steals this season. Green is one of the best defenders and passers in the league. Of course, he does all this at a much higher level than Terry is used to so far, but the young prospect could certainly aspire to follow in Green’s footsteps.
Draft Projection
Dalen Terry should hear his name called rather late in the first round of the draft or early in the second round.
