Wendell Moore Jr.
Year: Freshman
Height: 6-foot-6
Position: Forward
Last year’s statline: N/A
Game Breakdown: Moore has racked up the accolades throughout his high school career, and now he'll have a chance to show his talents in Cameron Indoor Stadium. The five-star recruit was ranked No. 18 in ESPN’s recruiting rankings for the 2019 class and earned two gold medals with USA Basketball’s U16 and U17 teams.
The Cox Mill product put on an absolute show in his senior year, averaging 25 points, 2.9 assists and 2.3 steals per contest, however, it was his time with Team USA that really put Moore on the national scene. The North Carolina native has impressive offensive skills, but his 35 steals in just 12 World Cup games highlighted his defensive capabilities. Moore is an impressive athlete, and what he lacks in three-point shooting skills, he makes up for with smooth ball-handling and a nice finishing touch around the basket.
Role on the Team: Moore seems like an obvious choice to start at either shooting guard or small forward thanks to solid defensive performances in the Blue and White scrimmage and in the first exhibition game. Despite being listed as a small forward, Duke's lack of size could push the freshman to match up with larger opponents at times. Nonetheless, his usage across the board will be heavy.
Moore is able to provide spectacular on-ball defense, and his physicality coupled with a long wingspan give him the ability to overcome any size difference. If the team is looking to lock-up with a backcourt of Tre Jones and Jordan Goldwire in late game scenarios, Moore not only adds to that defensive front, but also allows Duke to still have a capable scorer on the court.
NBA Comparison: Moore’s talent translates very well to the NBA, and he bears many similarities to Josh Richardson of the Philadelphia 76ers. Richardson is an elite defensive talent and makes most of his time on the floor creating havoc, generating steals and blowing up plays. Moore also shares a similar offensive style to the 2015 second-round pick. Neither player is a spectacular three-point shooter, but their quick style of play allows both to be efficient scorers.
Projected stats: 8.2 PPG, 2.1 APG, 1.5 SPG
Stay tuned to the Blue Zone for our continuing player previews. Previous players previewed include Michael Savarino, Keenan Worthington, Mike Buckmire, Justin Robinson, Jordan Goldwire, Joey Baker, Cassius Stanley, Alex O'Connell, Jack White and Javin DeLaurier.
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