[The following scouting report is part of a series on potential 2023 draft prospects from Sports Business Classroom alumni.]

Julian Strawther
Frame: 6’7″, 205 lbs
Position: Guard
Team: Gonzaga
2023 draft age: 21
Stats via NCAA, BartTorvik.com, NBA.com, NBADraft.net, TeamRankings.com

Offense

Starting in all but one of 66 games over the last two seasons, Strawther has been a reliable offensive weapon for the Bulldogs. A once below-average perimeter shooter, Strawther’s three-point production has increased steadily over his three seasons at Gonzaga (from 32.1 percent his freshman year to 42.9 percent this season).

In addition, of the 386 Division I players who have attempted over 150 threes, Strawther’s offensive rating ranks 30th, while his effective field goal percentage and true shooting percentage rank 20th and 22nd, respectively. 

Notably, Strawther plays in an elite Gonzaga offense that ranks first in points per game against weaker competition in the West Coast Conference. He has a relatively low release point, and an average vertical (28.5’ standing),  but his 6’9” wingspan and height allow him to shoot over closing defenders. More of a catch-and-shoot scorer, Strawther uses screens and moves without the ball to get open looks.

Strawther averages just 1.5 turnovers in over 30 minutes per game; his drives and shot attempts are well-calculated. He plays well within an offensive system, lets the game come to him, and plays at his pace. Despite average athleticism, Strawther can use his size and IQ to find his shot, stretch the floor, and open up the paint for his teammates, which he does well for All-American teammate Drew Timme.

Defense

Known more for his ability to shoot, Strawther offers excellent size at the wing position, which should help for defensive versatility at the next level. While his defensive stats will not jump off the page at 0.5 blocks and 0.9 steals per game, his ability to switch along the perimeter and offer post-up defense could allow him to exceed defensive expectations. 

Strawther is also a prolific defensive rebounder. His 19.7 defensive rebounding percentage ranks 11th among the 386 Division I players who have attempted more than 150 threes. In addition, Strawther’s willingness to crash the glass showcases a commitment on the defensive end and a much-needed aggressiveness for an average NBA athlete. 

With a slow first step, Strawther may struggle to keep up with quicker guards and wings. His 0.5 blocks per game may reflect a lack of getting back into the play once beaten, and his 249th-ranked steal percentage of the previously mentioned 386 players may suggest Strawther isn’t as impactful on weak-side help and on-ball pressure.

Strawther’s great size, coachability, and willingness to improve are qualities any coach would want from a draft prospect. He has a lot to learn, but if he can improve his lateral quickness and use his size to his advantage against quicker guards and wings, he can become an above-average defender.

Looking Ahead

Strawther will look to make an immediate impact with his shooting and size. His game took time to develop at Gonzaga, but his shooting has come a long way and should provide optimal floor spacing and additional scoring off the bench. As a strong catch-and-shoot scorer, Strawther can utilize his three-point aptitude to widen the lane for his driving teammates and create one-on-one opportunities for his posting big men. 

Still lacking the ability to play-make and consistently create his own shots, Strawther must rely on moving without the ball, fighting through screens, and making the most of his early opportunities. With an average first step and athleticism, Strawther’s size and three-point shooting prowess may be the areas he can most add value.

Strawther has a quick release, range and is willing to rebound and improve as a player. He’s projected to go late-first/early-second and could earn minutes early in his career. He must increase his defensive intensity and get the most out of his size. Fighting over screens and chasing after perimeter players take mental and physical endurance. In addition, shots will not come as easy in the NBA as they do for Strawther at Gonzaga; he must maintain good shot selection, be careful not to force the issue, and stay ready when called upon. 

Versatility and three-point shooting are hot commodities in today’s NBA. With Strawther’s ability to rebound and play within an offensive system, he should earn minutes off the bench early in his career and establish himself as an elite catch-and-shoot scorer. The NBA is a faster-paced game than college, which caters to Strawther’s experience at Gonzaga (first in points per game and 44th in possessions per game). He needs to continue to play to his strengths, stay within the game plan, and his offensive output could crack the top-15 of his draft class during his rookie season.