NBA Draft 2016: 10 Potential Late-Round Sleeper Prospects

By Ryan Piers | Jun 23, 2016

Mar 25, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Indiana Hoosiers guard Yogi Ferrell (11) reacts as North Carolina Tar Heels guard Joel Berry II (2) defends during the first half in a semifinal game in the East regional of the NCAA Tournament at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 18, 2016; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oregon State Beavers guard Gary Payton II (1) drives against Virginia Commonwealth Rams forward Mo Alie-Cox (12) in the first half during the first round of the 2016 NCAA Tournament at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

Gary Payton II, G, Oregon State

The son of the NBA great, Payton part two was known for more than just his glove-like defense at Oregon State. The electrifying point guard regularly made highlight reels with his sky-walking slams over players half a foot taller. And he was aggressive on the glass, claiming nearly eight rebounds per game. At 6’3, it’s safe to say Payton isn’t your orthodox point guard.

On first comparison, Payton shares a lot of the same traits as Houston Rocket’s guard Patrick Beverley. Both are athletic and strong defenders that suffer from being sub-par ball handlers. Beverly was drafted in the mid second round and that is probably where Payton will go.

Naturally, Payton will always be compared to his father. And they do share some similar traits. Gary Payton earned a reputation as the league’s best defensive point guard in the NBA and Payton II garnered the PAC 12 Defensive Player of the Year award this past year.

Both were more traditional, pass-first point guards as well as reliable leaders. But Payton could create his own shot and developed a jumper as his career progressed. If Payton II can do that, he is worth a second-round flyer.

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