Draft Grades: Vanguard

Overview

 

Captain Aaron Baker committed to an identity from the very beginning: size, strength, and physical basketball.

 

After selecting dominant big man Andrew Calderone third overall, Vanguard pairs him with Aaron Baker, giving them one of the biggest frontcourts in the league. Rather than chasing perimeter scoring, Aaron continued to add physical forwards and veteran point guards capable of feeding the post, creating a roster built to control the paint and wear opponents down.

 

They may not have the flashiest lineup in the BUBL, but few teams will enjoy battling Vanguard inside.

 

Biggest Strength

 

Dominating the Paint

 

No team is built to punish opponents physically quite like Vanguard. Andrew Calderone, Aaron Baker, Joe DeRiviere, and Andre Araujo all thrive around the basket, making Vanguard one of the league's strongest rebounding and interior scoring teams. If games become physical, this roster will be right at home.

 

Biggest Concern

 

Perimeter Speed and Shooting

 

While Vanguard has plenty of size, they'll face a challenge against smaller, quicker teams that spread the floor. They'll likely rely on Vince Nievo and Marcus Johnston to create offense, while players like Joel Barwick will need to provide consistent shooting to prevent defenses from collapsing into the paint.

 

Best Pick

 

Andrew Calderone (Round 1)

 

Andrew was one of the safest selections in the draft. His combination of strength, size, and post scoring immediately gives Vanguard a player capable of controlling games in the paint. He perfectly fits the identity Aaron wanted to build.

 

Sleeper Pick

 

Joel Barwick (Round 7)

 

Joel could quietly become one of the better late-round selections in the draft. He brings athleticism, slashing ability, and capable perimeter shooting to a roster that needed another scoring option on the wing. If he develops quickly, he'll outperform his draft position.

 

X-Factor

 

Aaron Baker

 

Aaron's impact goes well beyond the stat sheet. His passing ability, post footwork, and basketball IQ make him the glue that holds this roster together. As captain, he'll be responsible for balancing a frontcourt loaded with size while making sure Vanguard doesn't become too predictable offensively.

 

Final Verdict

 

Vanguard may not have generated the same excitement as some of the other draft classes, but they know exactly who they are. Aaron Baker assembled a physical, disciplined roster that should dominate the glass and challenge every opponent in the paint. Their success will depend on whether they can generate enough offense from the perimeter, but if they establish their style early, Vanguard has the potential to frustrate even the league's top contenders.

 

Draft Grade: B