With the 11 pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Golden State Warriors selected Washington State wing Klay Thompson. Throughout the pre-draft process, Thompson has impressed in individual workouts and interviews, providing frank, honest answers about his marijuana arrest this past year, as well as impressing with his ability on the court. Before the process truly got underway, Thompson was seen as a late-first round prospect, but has seen his stock steadily rise throughout the process, leading to Thursday's selection in the NBA Draft.
Thompson's strength is clearly his pure shooting ability. As he began his career at Washington State, the 6-foot-7 wing was used mainly as a spot-up shooter,patrolling the perimeter and knocking down three-pointers. But as his career progressed, Thompson's ability to create off the dribble and distribute were markedly improved. But, clearly, his shooting ability were the biggest selling points in this draft.
His weakness, according to scouts, lies on the defensive end. Thompson's athleticism has been questioned, and left some wondering if he'd be able to defend the perimeter and some of the more agile wings in the league. And while his ball-handling has improved, he must continue to progress once he gets to the league.
Thompson the second Washington State Cougar to be selected in the first round and the highest draft pick the Cougars have produced. The Atlanta Hawks made Don Collins the 18th pick in the 1980 NBA Draft.
Stay with this StoryStream for the latest on the draft and how Thompson may project in the NBA. For more on the Washington State Cougars, head over to SB Nation's CougCenter.