NBA Draft Profile: Royce White

Royce White - PF – 6’8, 261lbs.
Iowa State

A point-forward with NBA strength, White has as much upside as any mid-first round prospect. Although he is slightly undersized as a power forward, White’s 7’0 wingspan will allow him to defend other fours in the NBA. He can score with his back to the basket or in face-up situations.

As the focal point of the Cyclones’ offence, he proved to be an exceptional passer and ball-handler. He led the team in points, rebounds and assists during his one season at Iowa State. Royce runs the floor like a gazelle and is a very efficient scorer from the floor (53.4% FG). He should be an instant fit with any NBA offence, because he plays team-first basketball and always looks to make the right play.

There are a couple of character concerns with White, which could lead GM’s to red-flag him. He reportedly has a fear of flying and suffers from an anxiety disorder. He also ran into legal problems at Minnesota, which forced him to transfer to Iowa State. His biggest flaw on the court is at the charity stripe, where he shot 49.8% on free throws. This could become a major issue considering how much White handles the ball.

ESPN’s Fran Fraschilla writes that “Ultimately, White's strengths will require a coach who is creative and doesn't box him into one position. His manoeuvrability with the ball and the spacing on offence in the NBA will make him a mismatch player.”