I'm fortunate for work I get to go Nike EYBL (was at Peach Jam last year and saw CFJ and Karaban). Checked out Taylor's game today -- he is teammates with Gavin Griffiths but Gavin was not with the team (apparent injury -- he was listed on the roster).
Anyways, here are my notes on Bowen:
- Played the 4/5 for majority of the game -- I'd say his best position would be a stretch 4 and he is definitely more comfortable on the perimeter rather than inside
- When you see him in person you see how he's long and immediately think he's super athletic -- I'd actually say he's more skilled than athletic which surprised me. Not saying he isn't athletic by any means, but I'd say his athleticism is more on an Akok level (today, post injuries). Not a bad thing by any means, and I actually think it's a good thing in regards to how skilled he is
- He has great handling for his size -- had a nice crossover setting up a mid-range jumper that swished. This is what surprised me the most. By no means can he be a primary ballhandler or bring the ball up the court, but the skill is there. They even set up some pick and rolls with him as the ballhandler which is awesome to run with your 4/5.
- Didn't see much in terms of passing. Most of the time when he ended up with the ball, it resulted in a shot/FTs.
- Great stroke for his size as well -- didn't really take many outside shots but got to the line a ton -- and made all but 1 FT. I think he can definitely be a decent 3P shooter (35%+) as a stretch 4. I think the fact he got to the line so often is a huge plus -- refs even missed a few shots or he would have went there more
- More aggressive on offense than defense (hence getting to the line often). However, when he did put that engine into play on defense, he made a couple nice help blocks at the rim. Definitely would play well into our defensive system with how our shot blockers operate no doubt. Solid motor for sure overall but would like to see a little more.
- He's pretty passive emotions wise -- think JLamb demeanor. Doesn't show emotions either way (positive or negative) like Lamb did and is also not vocal at all -- very quiet on the court. If you're the best player on your team I'd like to see you talking and leading your teammates more, but leadership isn't for everyone I suppose
- Didn't see a lot in terms of rebounding which was disappointing -- I think it has to do with his engine to a degree, but definitely something he needs to work on.
Overall, I think he's worth the hype. Would say best case for him is a 2-year player. The skill is there but needs to work on his body, athleticism and engine. I'd say he's basically what we though Akok would be pre injury with a much, much better handle. I definitely think he's attainable for us too -- I don't know if he can step in right away an be the type of player that a Kentucky or Duke usually requires from their freshman. He could probably start at the 4 for us next season if he was on the team though, but would be the 5th option on offense.
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