VITALS: 6-8, 210 OVERVIEW: A two-time New Jersey High School Player of the Year, Banks was one of the top freshman in the country in 2003-04, averaging 17.4 points and 6.5 rebounds. Academic, attitude and off the court problems led to his dismissal from the squad after 16 games this season. With the ability to score inside, off the dribble and from the perimeter, Banks has made as many as six 3-pointers in a game. LIKELY DRAFT POSITION: There is a small chance Banks will be picked at the end of the first round. Likely to be picked in the 30s, he could last to the Lakers at 39. COMPARATIVE UPSIDE: Eddie Jones COMPARATIVE DOWNSIDE: Sean Higgins ROLE PROJECTION: Instant offense off the bench. POSITIVES: Banks can hit shots from all over the court. He has the handles of a guard but the size that enables him to shoot over most 2-guards. He can run off points in bunches and carry a team for a spell. If he ever applied himself defensively, he has the wingspan and lateral quickness to be an excellent defender who could defend two positions. SHORTCOMINGS: Banks is a high-strung player who has not responded positively when things don't go his way. At times labeled as selfish, he was on the outs with teammates at Memphis at times. He has excellent talent - more than enough to be successful in the NBA - but he must learn to channel his emotions in the proper direction.
