This standout guard/forward is a senior at Houston Baptist. Earlier in his career, he was a role player on the Purdue Boilmakers. However, he has now come into his own as the top player for his low major squad. While this may not seem unprecedented, I believe that his abilities deserve a brief look.
On the offensive end, Watt is strong taking the ball to the basket after having improved his handle. Oftentimes, he is prone to getting a bit out of control- in which case he is called for an offensive foul. While this facet of his game- namely his slashing ability- is much improved, it is questionable whether he can utilize his current tools to further a career at the next level. Nonetheless, his strength and bulk is an asset for any wing and this allows him to create space when attacking the rim. Thus, with the proper instruction, Gordon may be able to attain a role overseas or maybe impress an NBA scout in summer league. At this stage, his offensive game will likely earn him a slot on the Portsmouth Camp roster. Watt is fairly quick in transition, but he needs to utilize his body more when finishing through contact. Despite playing forward for his squad, he does have a nice face up game. Still it is questionable how this will work at the next level, where he won't be matched up against slower big men. He has demonstrated a nice touch from the outside, but he will have to be more consistent in this respect if he expects to find a role professionally. At the free throw line, he is extremely inconsistent and does not really possess a soft touch. Finally, Watt is a good offensive rebounder for his size.
Watt is somewhat of an enigma on the defensive end judging strictly by his role in the Houston Baptist scheme. He hedges hard and is very physical in the post, boxing out well and demonstrating nice fundamentals. Previously, Watt did defend players with similar talents at Purdue. And, many pegged him as a hard nosed specialist. Assuming he still has the wearwithall to exert his perimeter defense during pre-draft camp invites, Watt may attain a role solely through his aggressive defense.
There are some red flags for NBA scouts concerning his falling out at Purdue. He was dismissed from the team following his arrest for his second DUI in less than a year. If he has truly changed and finally has his head on straight, Watt may get a few looks from scouts at the next level. Gordon continues to play without the publicity that he once had at a Big Ten school. He has quietly improved his game and will soon be looking for a new path once his collegiate career is over.
