The lanky 6’5”, 175-pound guard/forward from Richmond, California is a rising stock in the class of 2013.
As a sophomore at Salesian (CA), Bird has impressed scouts with his mix of athleticism and shooting ability out past the mid-range. He is fearless with the pull-up jumper and can knock it down with relative consistency.
“I compare my game to Kevin Durant,” said Bird. “I’m long and lean. I can get to the rim, create for others, and score.”
He is most effective in transition, running the floor and throwing down some highlight-reel dunks on unsuspecting defenders. His athleticism creates space for him and his teammates, as defenses try to neutralize his ability to play above the rim.
“I’m still trying to work on my ballhandling,” Bird said. “I want to be able to blow by defenders and add another element to my game.”
Bird is beginning to get looks from major Division I programs like Washington, Washington State, Oregon, and Arizona.
“As of right now, I’m looking primarily west coast. I’m favoring Washington and Arizona,” he said. “I want to make sure I look at high majors that fit my style of play and has a system that runs the floor.”
Bird has just begun his second season playing AAU for the Oakland Soldiers and will continue to put his growing skill set on display for scouts as he pushes toward a major Division I program in the future. His coveted combination of half-court saavy and ability to run in the open floor will certainly draw some big-time attention.
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