Alumni Profile: Ben Gordon

Name: Ben Gordon

Team: Detroit Pistons

NBA Rank: 65

Looking Back: Ben had an interesting off season last year. He sat unsigned by the Bulls after he rejected their first offer. He later signed a one year contract before camp and joined the team during mini-camp. He started off the season playing well and soon became a starter. It wasn’t until the playoffs that he showed his magic, creating an epic series against the Boston Celtics in which Gordon hit clutch shot after clutch shot. It earned him a fat paycheck on a new team, even though the Bulls slighted him by not even offering a contract.

The Good: He is an offensive force, possessing a silky touch from deep and a quick step to the basket. Solid from the line, Ben is clutch with the ball in his hands. He is good coming off picks or taking his man off the dribble. It is also unique to see a player play well coming off the bench or starting. He is a fourth quarter player, who gets hot when a team is desperate for scoring.

The Bad: Not known for is shutdown defense, Gordon tends to use a majority of his energy on the offensive side of the ball. He also gets himself into trouble when he is in the air and causes turnovers. Ben thrives when the offense is funneling through him and isn’t the most impressive passer.

Looking Ahead: Ben has a fresh slate now that he is in Detroit and should be able to find his niche in the new look Pistons. Some players need a change of scenery to be able to take their game to another level and hopefully he has found it. With Rip and Villanueva also there, he has more of an inclusive environment to improve his game.