Scotty Hobson vs. Tim Hardaway Jr.
This is sort of a Now vs. Later matchup, with Hobson a likely late first/early second round pick if he declares while Hardaway Jr. at least one, if not two years away from being a top NBA prospect. Hobson is a known commodity while Hardaway Jr. is a player on the rise. Both guys are versatile scorers with NBA three point range and quickness to drive it to the basket along with the athleticism to finish above the rim. Hardaway is still learning to play the game at this level, but he's got pedigree and potential, a good showing against Hobson and Tennessee could help him on his way to Scouts radars.
Keith Benson vs. Tristan Thompson
The matchup between Keith Benson and Tristan Thompson mirrors the matchup between their teams, Oakland and Texas. Thompson is the established prospect, likely to go in the late lottery, while Benson is a fringe guy looking to show he can compete with the big boys. Benson's problem isn't on offense, or even rebounding. In games against West Virginia, Purdue, Illinois, Michigan State, Michigan, Tennessee, Ohio State (all on the road) he averaged 15.9 ppg and 11.2 rebounds but Texas' defense and length, which is highlighted by Thompson, provides a very difficult matchup for Benson. However, the big problem Benson has is he struggles to play post defense (don't be deceived by the shot blocking numbers, he's not a great defender) and matching up with Thompson and holding his own will go a long way to improve his stock, because we know he can score and rebound against elite competition.
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