Indiana Basketball: Bryce Hopkins scouting report

Bryce Hopkins: Strengths

Bryce Hopkins is a very strong player in a solid 6’7” frame. He has a variety of moves he can use to finish at the rim. Spins, hop steps, euro steps, you name it, he’s got it. Hopkins already has the strength to finish through contact in the paint and defenders will bounce off of him like they’re playing bumper cars more often than not.

Because he is so adept at finishing, Hopkins likes to patrol the paint. He is effective from the high post and the low post, but he is also agile enough to take his man off the dribble from the perimeter. He’ll even run an occasional pick and roll as a ball handler.

Hopkins has a little shooting ability, but his stroke is nothing special. Still, it is enough to keep the defense honest; it isn’t a Justin Smith type situation where the defense can leave him wide open with zero repercussions.

A big pro to Hopkins’ game is his shot IQ. He understands that he is most dominant inside and he doesn’t force jump shots. He gets to his spots on the floor and plays his offensive game the way that he wants to, not letting the defense bait him into taking tough shots from the perimeter that aren’t really his forte.

Hopkins’ size and strength also factor in on the defensive side of the ball. He is able to guard quicker forwards but also has the strength to hold his ground in the post versus taller offensive players. He projects to be a solid defender for a power five school.