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Will Riley dribbles the ball during the first round of the NCAA tournament at Fiserv Forum on March 21, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
Patrick McDermott via Getty Images
Summary: Riley has dynamic driving ability and playmaking instincts that scream upside as a jumbo-sized, shot-creating wing. But his jumper is streaky, and his defense is unreliable since he’s so lean physically and lacks fundamentals.
Comparisons: Cam Reddish, Ochai Agbaji
Strengths
Drive game: Riley is a strong driver who displays an ability to withstand contact and still finish through it. And he has good shot-creation skills for a big wing with spin moves and a smooth crossover.
Shooting upside: He’s comfortable getting into pull-ups and turnarounds from the midrange and behind the arc, though results are very streaky.
Playmaking: Skilled passer who delivers creative dimes off the dribble, seamlessly firing one-handed passes for cuts, lobs, and kickouts. He also minimizes turnovers, showing a strong feel for making the smart read on his way to the basket.
Off-ball movement: He’s an active mover off the ball, showing great timing for cuts and awareness to relocate behind the arc. If he becomes an even better shooter, he could develop into a weapon off screens and handles.
Concerns
Shooting: Riley made only 32.1% of his 3s and 71.6% of his free throws as an Illinois freshman. He lacks fluidity getting into his shot off the dribble, and he’s fairly rigid in spot-up situations too.
Defense: Though he has the height to theoretically be a highly versatile defender, he is extremely skinny and prone to getting plowed by strong scorers. And his fundamentals aren’t at a level that he can be relied on to contain quicker players either. Even his off-ball awareness is underwhelming. It’ll take him resolving a lot of “ifs” to become a competent defender.
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