Roundball Direct

Credits, Univ of Nevada

By Tim Donohoo

Deonte Burton enters his junior year at Nevada on the heels of a tremendous freshman year where he was named the Western Athletic Conference Freshman of the Year; and a solid sophomore season (averaging 14 points per game along with four assists and two rebounds). D.B. shows the ability to create separation for pull up jump shots effortlessly from the midrange in one on one situations. He can hit the difficult jumper and can even hit the tough shot with a hand in his face.

Very good at drawing contact and frequents the free throw line. He is a good distributor of the basketball and sets up his teammates well. Possesses good energy on defense and his recovery speed is fantastic. His intensity is through the roof and is one to watch during the upcoming 2012-13 slate of games.

This 21- year old point guard out of Los Angeles Compton Centennial High School hit the double figure scoring mark 24 times last year with a 31 point outburst against Washington, Dec. 2 (76-73 overtime wins). Burton can hit the boards with the big boys. Grabbed eight rebounds in the first round NIT win over Oral Roberts, March 14.

Nevada eventually lost in the tournament quarterfinals to Stanford. All in all, the team had a good 2011-12, compiling a 28-7 overall record and winning the WAC title at 13-1 in fourteen league games. He is a very strong and athletic player. Outstanding slasher and excellent in the transition game.

Can be a streaky shooter with range to about 17 feet. Burton is definitely the best player in the WAC and has a nice first step. He can get out of control at times; however, he is fun to watch as he can put the ball on the floor and head for the rim.