David Roddy looks like an NFL tight end, but the Colorado State standout has a unique set of skills that can help him become an NBA player.
Growing up in Minnesota, Roddy was actually a standout high school quarterback. While he could have played football in college, he opted for the hardwood, and the decision has paid off thus far. He averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game while shooting 43.8% on his 3-pointers in 2021-22.
It is not uncommon for NBA prospects to flaunt their versatility as a strength, but few are able to check as many boxes as Roddy. He is the rare three-level scorer who can finish efficiently either at the rim, from the midrange or from beyond the arc.
Roddy is also one of just two prospects (NCAA, G League, or international) with more than 30 possessions attempting to score as both the ball-handler and as the screener in pick and roll sets, according to the Synergy database.
He was also able to add positive value as a good positional rebounder and playmaker with above-average court vision and a low turnover rate.
There are some physical concerns about Roddy, who measured at just 6’4.5″ without shoes at the NBA Draft Combine. However, his 6’11.5″ wingspan may allow him to guard larger opponents. Meanwhile, although his body fat percentage is relatively high, he performed very well in athletic testing.
His lane agility (10.75 seconds) ranked in the 89th percentile. His three-quarter sprint (3.22 seconds) and his max vertical (35.5 inches) both ranked in the 60th percentile or better, via Stadium Speak.
Roddy’s shot wasn’t falling during five-on-five scrimmages at the combine, and several publications (including The Athletic and ESPN) believe it may have hurt his draft stock.
However, I believe he showed improvement as a defender — especially with his lateral movement while switching on the perimeter — and his passing was on full display as well.
My biggest takeaway from Chicago: Due to his height, at the next level, Roddy is someone who likely has to play at the wing and not the frontcourt (like he has in college). He will need to trim down even more than he already has but fortunately, he isn’t slow-footed at all, and he has enough length to hold his own when he does get switched onto bigger players.
He is currently testing the waters of the NBA draft, leaving the option to return to college and potentially instead turn pro after next season. He caught up with For The Win, explaining more about the pre-draft process so far and how he sees his own game.
This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.
