As the all-time leading scorer for Villanova University, Eric Dixon brings a unique blend of toughness and physicality to the basketball court. Standing at 6-8 and weighing 259 pounds, Dixon is a senior with 24 years of age, making him an experienced player with a wealth of college basketball knowledge. However, his lack of athleticism will likely limit his usage in the NBA.
Shooting: Dixon has always had a soft touch around the basket, and as a super senior, he finally translated this ability beyond the arc, making 40.7% of his 7.2 attempts per game. For NBA purposes, he will likely play off-ball and he made 43.2% of catch-and-shoot 3s, per Synergy. This versatility in his shooting game will make him a valuable asset for any NBA team looking for a reliable shooter.
Drive Game: Dixon attacks closeouts with patience and a good handle, using his massive frame to plow through opponents and draw contact inside the paint. He can also turn around and post up, making him a versatile offensive weapon in ball screens. His ability to create his own shot and draw fouls will be an asset in the NBA.
Offensive Versatility: Villanova utilized Dixon in a variety of roles on the floor, from primary creator to using off-ball screens to posting up down low. Though he won’t be a high-usage player in the NBA, he could plug into different roles for his team, providing a much-needed offensive presence. His ability to adapt to different positions on the court will make him a valuable asset for any team looking for a versatile player.
Defensive Versatility: While Dixon is not quick defending on the perimeter and lacks explosiveness protecting the rim and crashing the boards, he will need to improve his lateral ability to become a switchy defender. Early in his career, he will likely be targeted by opposing teams due to his lack of speed and quickness. However, with proper coaching and training, he could develop into a solid defender in the NBA.
Athleticism: Despite his height, Dixon logged only five dunk attempts in his final season with Villanova and made only three. He is a below-the-rim player who relies on strength to plow through defenders, which may not translate against NBA athletes. However, his strength and physicality will still be an asset in the NBA, especially in the post-up game.
Playmaking: Dixon had a negative assist-to-turnover ratio in all five years at Villanova, indicating that he is not too aware of double teams. This could be an issue in the NBA where speed and awareness are crucial for success. However, with proper coaching and training, he could develop into a more effective playmaker in the NBA.
In conclusion, Eric Dixon is a player with a lot of potential but also some concerns that need to be addressed in order for him to succeed in the NBA. His unique blend of toughness and physicality, combined with his shooting and drive game, make him an intriguing prospect for any team looking for a versatile and reliable player. For more information on Eric Dixon and other prospects for the NBA Draft, check out my NBA Draft Guide.
