Pacers Draft Prep: Frank Mason III has the winning formula
By Luke Parrish
The NBA draft always focuses on upside and potential, but Frank Mason III is already a proven star. The Kansas standout is using the pre-draft process to show he can succeed at the next level.
A senior and three-year starter at a storied program in Kansas, Frank Mason III has experience. Not only did Mason star, he was nationally recognized. He took home several awards last season, including the Wooden Award and the Oscar Robertson Trophy. Then, Mason was named a consensus All-American. The accolades just keep coming for the young man, and he is primed for the NBA. He could be a great fit for the Pacers.
What Mason lacks in size, he makes up for with athleticism and heart. He may only stand at 5-foot-11 but he has a remarkable 41-inch vertical. He also has a strong build for his smaller frame, making him a tough matchup at the point guard position.
Strengths
Mason is a very capable scorer. During his senior season, he averaged nearly 21 points per game and 23 points per 40 minutes. He was able to do this while shooting 49 percent overall and a staggering 47 percent from deep. He also shot a respectable 79 percent from the free-throw line.
We’ve seen his awards. They speak for themselves. He has shown that he can win and lead a team, and that should raise eyebrows.
Kansas was always set up to win when the ball was in Mason’s hands. We know he can score, but he was also solid at setting up teammates. Averaging four assists per game for his career and five per game in 2016-17, Mason was responsible for a ton of points.
Mason spent four years at Kansas under Bill Self, so it’s obvious he’s learned his fair share about the game. His basketball IQ is through the roof, and he has what it takes to win.
Weaknesses
If there was one glaring weakness about Frank Mason, it’d be his size. At just 5-foot-11 with a 6-foot-3 wingspan, he is a bit undersized. The lack of length could limit his abilities, especially on the defensive end.
With experience comes age, and NBA front offices don’t necessarily look for a 23-year old to build around. It’s no secret that teams are more likely to take an 18-year old with upside instead of the proven senior.
NBA comparison: Yogi Ferrell/Tyler Ulis
Next: Mock Draft: Who will the Pacers select at No. 18?
In the first round, Mason seems unlikely for Indiana. But in round 2, should he be there, he could be a steal. His winning pedigree and maturity can help make an instant impact for any NBA team. I would love to see Mason in the blue and gold in 2017.