Baylor Basketball: Ja’Kobe Walter Set to See Big Role for Bears
Consensus five-star Ja’Kobe Walter has an abundance of talent.
At 6-foot-5, the shooting guard is already an adept shot-maker, displaying touch and confidence well beyond his years in most of his high school tape. And his athleticism — which helps him sky for dunks, create crafty looks or in a variety of ways on defense — isn’t too shabby either.
There are certainly areas of improvement, namely his handle, playmaking and general defensive tendencies. But for the most part, Walter very much fits the mold of a long line of talented Baylor freshmen.
Even more, the Bears might be in the market to again rely on some freshman production on the offensive end.
After combo guard Keyonte George was drafted at No. 16 in the 2023 NBA Draft, point guard Adam Flagler signed with the OKC Thunder and LJ Cryer’s transfer to Houston, the team will be looking to make up some ground in the guard department.
The addition of Jayden Nunn from VCU will help, but Walter is likely in line for as many shots as he can make.
The bulk of his shots will likely come in the form of open, or even contested, catch-and-shoot looks from beyond the arc. But make no mistake, in order to make up for lost production, he’ll get his fair share of driving and slashing looks, too. And his athleticism might just help him create off-the-dribble and then some.
Regardless, the Bears have another strong freshman talent set to help take on another loaded Big 12 conference.
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