Bridging The Gap: A Look at Michigan State Freshman Miles Bridges

When you think of the upcoming college basketball season, names like Harry Giles, Markelle Fultz, or Josh Jackson comes to mind. It’s without a doubt that they’re all going to dominate this season, but one name has not been mentioned much and I feel he needs more recognition: Michigan State commit Miles Bridges.

Standing at 6’6. 225, the five-star Bridges is an explosive play-maker that can use his great frame to score around the rim. His elevation is unreal, flying high to the rim with powerful force. It’s without a doubt that Miles Bridges has dunks for days, and it really shows in the clip below. Again, his ability to soar to the rim with much power is what sets him apart from other small forwards. Watch in awe as he executes well perfected dunks with a strong burst of energy.

Alongside that, Bridges is an accomplished scorer and facilitator, which makes him very versatile as a player. The multiple abilities of Bridges erases any questions critics may have of him. Although most of Bridges' game comes in the paint, he can knock down 3 pointers occasionally, which would keep opponents on their game. Driving to the rim while still staying composed while in traffic and making his shots or facilitating assists will make Bridges a force to be reckoned with. He has a great feel for the game and his IQ for what to do is naturally implanted in him. Offensively, Bridges can contribute in many ways that will help his teammates around him grow.

On the defensive end, Bridges is a monster, using his elevation skills to block a shot farther than a home run swing. Creating turnovers is another area he does particularly well in, which will also help to improve his draft stock. Despite his frame, he shows no signs of struggling while he makes blocks, showing that he is in great shape. His skill on both sides of the end are excellent, as shown down in the clip below.

Bridges will start his collegiate career as a Spartan this fall and his presence will definitely give Michigan State a boost, since Denzel Valentine and Matt Costello are both gone. However, being the great player he is, the NBA draft has most likely been in the back of his head slowly sliding to the front as the season approaches. For example, Draft Expresshas Bridges at 26th in their recent mock draft. Although that's still low for an incoming freshman,  the possible fact of him being a one and done player seems like it may be set in stone,  but of course anything can change.

Although Bridges needs to make advancements as a free throw shooter and be a more consistent perimeter threat, Bridges already stands as a player that has a legitimate shot to be the best freshman in the Big 10. That alone could have us seeing Bridges being picked in the 1st round in next year's NBA Draft.