Player comparisons for Ausur Thompson and Marcus Sasser

Marcus Sasser undersized with massive fire power, one of the most NBA-ready guards in this draft…

Make no mistake, Marcus Sasser is ready for this opportunity. The 6-foot-2 195 lbs. senior guard from the University of Houston was selected with the 25th pick. Sasser recorded 16.8 points 2.8 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game in his final season for the Cougars. He spearheaded the offense, proving to be a viable option as a three-level scoring threat. He’ll be an excellent addition to the bench, could be a replacement for veteran guard Cory Joseph in the rotation.

Here’s a few stats from Shot Quality via Twitter:

Scoring the basketball comes with ease to Sasser, utilizing a solid mid range game and floater out of the pick and roll. His three-point shot is promising, on 6.8 attempts he shot 38.4 percent from behind the long line. His catch and shoot numbers are more convincing that his shooting prowess will translate to the league. He shot around 45 percent in catch and shoot scenarios this ranked in the 95th percentile at the collegiate level.

Package that with the ability to create off the dribble and you have player who fits seamlessly next to Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey. Expect Marcus to make some noise early in Summer League looking to make his presence felt.

Although he has a natural scoring touch, he doesn’t shy away from the defensive end either. He disrupted action at the point of attack, using his length to his advantage at just 6-foot-2 with a 6-foot-7 wingspan. His stature makes him sneakily long, with a low center of gravity and strong lateral quickness. Staying in front of players and using his quick hands helped him average 1.6 steals last year.

He was an intricate part of one of college basketball’s most stifling defenses. The Cougars ranked 2nd in opponents scoring at an astonishing 57.5 points per game. Kelvin Sampson doesn’t play guards who can’t defend, Sasser is no different. His tenacity on that end of the floor helped Houston become tied for the 2nd ranked team in college with a 89.4 defensive rating.

Troy Weaver has mentioned that adding more defensive players will be on his agenda this summer and with Marcus he’s doubling down on that statement. He has a high IQ and doesn’t get rattled due to his maturity. He’s seen it all at the college level, he’s now ready to show and prove in the association. Watching film it’s obvious he plays with a chip on his shoulder and could become a fan favorite from day one.

Marcus Sasser is a legit two way guard who should excel in Detroit. His experience and ability to impact the game on both ends will earn him minutes as rookie. He’s a no nonsense guard who can score in bunches and fans should be happy to have him in Pistons blue next season. Not many defenders at the guard position possesses the scoring ability of Sasser. He reminds me of a perfect blend of Kyle Lowry (defensively) with a Jameer Nelson offensive package.

Player comparisons: Kyle Lowry (defense), Jameer Nelson (offense)