Draft Grades: Elevation

Overview

 

Rather than overhauling his roster, Alex retained much of Elevation's Season 2 core, believing they were only a couple of pieces away from contending. With elite playmakers like Tito Lazo-Castro and Alex running the offense, sharpshooters like Ralph El-Hakim spacing the floor, and Albert Ocran anchoring the paint, Elevation has a balanced lineup that should be difficult to defend when the ball is moving.

 

This may not be the flashiest roster in the league, but it's one of the few teams entering the season with established chemistry. If continuity matters, Elevation could outperform expectations.

 

Biggest Strength

 

Chemistry and Ball Movement

 

Few teams have as much familiarity playing together as Elevation. Alex, Tito, Ralph, and Albert already know each other's tendencies, while Gal Harper and Charles Turney played multiple seasons with Tito and Albert in another league. This team has the potential to generate plenty of quality looks through unselfish basketball.

 

Biggest Concern

 

Shot Selection

 

Elevation has no shortage of players capable of making shots, but several key contributors have been prone to forcing difficult ones. If the team stays disciplined and trusts its offense, they'll be dangerous. If they fall into isolation basketball, their efficiency could suffer against stronger defensive teams.

 

Best Pick

 

Tito Lazo-Castro (Round 2 – Keeper)

 

Keeping one of the league's premier playmakers in the second round is outstanding value. Tito's ability to defend, rebound from the guard position, and create opportunities for teammates makes him one of the most complete point guards in the BUBL and the perfect floor general for this roster.

 

Sleeper Pick

 

Brandon Christenson (Round 8)

 

If Brandon returns to the form he showed before his shoulder injury, this could become one of the biggest steals of the draft. His ability to stretch the floor gives Elevation another offensive dimension, and an eighth-round flyer on a proven shooter carries very little risk with significant upside.

 

X-Factor

 

Alex Warda

 

Alex's greatest strength has been making the players around him better. As one of the league's smartest players, his leadership and ability to orchestrate the offense will determine whether Elevation takes the next step. If he gets this team playing together the way it's capable of, they'll be a difficult matchup every week.

 

Final Verdict

 

Elevation may not have the star power of some of the league's top contenders, but they don't need to. This roster is built on chemistry, experience, and players who complement one another well. With elite playmaking, dependable interior presence, and several capable shooters, Elevation has the pieces to surprise people this season. If their decision-making and shot selection improve, don't be surprised to see them in the championship conversation by year's end.

 

Draft Grade: B+