[The following scouting report is part of a series on potential 2025 draft prospects from Sports Business Classroom alumni.]

Walter Clayton Jr.
Frame: 6’2″, 199 lbs
Position: Guard
Team: Florida Gators
2025 Draft Age: 22
Stats via: Sports-Reference​

Offense

Clayton enters the draft as one of the most advanced perimeter shooters available, boasting a career three-point mark of 37.9 percent on high volume. His compact release, deep range, and shot versatility make him an immediate floor-spacing threat. He excels in spot-ups, transition, and movement shooting, including 43.5 percent on spot-up threes and 42.9 percent in transition last season.

What separates Clayton is his shot versatility. He consistently converts tough looks with balance, whether off screens, handoffs, or the dribble. His contested shooting is elite, as shown by a 40 percent clip on guarded catch-and-shoot attempts. He adds midrange value with floaters and pull-ups, operating with pace and craft.

While not a true point guard, Clayton can create for himself late in the clock. His handle is sturdy, and he uses hesitations to gain space, though his playmaking remains underdeveloped. Decision-making in ball-screen settings is inconsistent, and he can miss open teammates or force difficult passes. His finishing also lags, with just 51.3 percent in the half-court at the rim, often struggling against length and contact.

Defense

Defensively, Clayton is limited but competes. He shows good off-ball instincts, creating havoc with quick hands and anticipation. His steal and block numbers reflect a knack for timely reads and deflections.

Due to his average lateral quickness and short-area burst, he struggles to stay in front of quicker guards on the ball. He gives up size without standout length and can be targeted in isolation. His defensive upside depends on improved discipline and effort to maximize awareness and timing.

Looking Ahead

Clayton projects as a scoring guard whose shooting gravity fits cleanly next to a primary creator. His NBA role is well-defined: space the floor, knock down tough shots, and inject quick offense off the bench. While his upside may be capped by finishing and playmaking limitations, his shooting floor is among the highest in the class.

Clayton could provide value for playoff teams needing an offensive punch and reliable spacing. He fits the mold of guards like Seth Curry and Isaiah Joe as a microwave scorer and movement shooter capable of swinging bench units. With NBA-ready shot-making and competitive energy, Clayton Jr. is a strong candidate for late first-round consideration.