Yves Pons

YVES PONS 

Another kind of sad story. Lately few French prospects ended up in very high major colleges and it definitely doesn’t go smooth. Ayayi probably eventually will be fine and whole scouting world will be shocked if he doesn’t play good minutes with Gonzaga upcoming season. Jaylen Hoard seemed to have a first round chance but went undrafted. Other Demon Deacons Oliver Sarr still needs more time. Finally Yves Pons still is a huge liability on offense. Blessed with tremendous physical tools and athleticism. Raw but high flyer who can defend anyone. That’s what I remember from U17s in Zaragoza. Three years after, including two seasons in Tennessee I am really not sure if he got better in anything.  

YVES PONS (TENNESSEE) – Most likely the biggest disappointment from all not only freshmen but Europeans in general. Haiti born physical specimen played only five min per game with horrible per 36 numbers like below 5 points and basically recording the same amount of fouls and buckets in 124 minutes he was given entire season. Considering the hype he had, athleticism and mature profile everyone was expecting much more. Part of the problems may be correlated with cultural adjustment he had to deal with as not too long before commitment he could barely speak English. Also basketball IQ seemed like it needs some refinements. However now he should be able to fully understand Tennessee system and impress again with his lockdown defense, degree of poise, energy and ability to make highlights reel dunks.

YVES PONS (France, Tennessee)

French physical specimen came up with somewhat late decision about continuing his career on college route. Haiti born player didn’t even speak good English not so long ago. Anyway he is an elite athlete regarding the standards of all power conferences and also considering NBA level. His terrific strength and wingspan allow him to easily check all power forwards standing at just 6’7 in shoes. He takes pride in stopping his man and can lockdown go-to options from 1-4 positions. At the same time he has enough energy to excel in transition and be a target for highlight reel alley-oop dunks. His offensive abilities in half-court are definitely work in progress. He gets tunnel vision and basketball IQ is just average in best case scenario. Same with three point shooting. Nevertheless his tools will allow him to make major immediate impact and if his skills and awareness significantly improves over the collegiate years, He can continue doing his thing in NBA.