The senior captivated the nation with his incredible play, leading the Cougars to the Sweet 16 before falling to Florida.
Some think Fredette has the potential to be a bona fide star when he reaches the NBA, others see something a bit less favorable in his future.
In 2006, Gonzaga forward Adam Morrison entered the NBA Draft to much fanfare. The sharpshooting big man with the wispy moustache had averaged a remarkable 28.5 points per game his junior year, and shared National Player of the Year Honors with Duke forward J.J. Reddick.
His stock soared so much, he was picked third overall by the Charlotte Bobcats, but what followed was a disastrous five-year career punctuated by little playing time, ineffective play when he was on the court, and he quickly became one of the biggest busts in recent NBA history.
Many have attempted to compare Fredette, a fellow mid-major standout, to Morrison, who is currently a free agent. But, while Fredette may not wind up being the kind of superstar he was in college (in fact, that's highly unlikely), comparisons to Morrison are greatly exaggerated.
Fredette is a better athlete and shooter than Morrison, capable of creating his own scoring chances, with the range to knock down just about any shot he'd need to. He's big enough to take the punishment the NBA doles out, and he's a skilled ballhandler, someone who can create off the dribble.
Fredette's court vision is excellent, and his scoring touch is superior to that of the Gonzaga standout. He moves well off the ball, and has enough skills that translate to the NBA game that he should be able to carve out quite a nice niche for someone who needs a spark plug asa sixth man.
I'm not saying he'll be a star, but let's not be so hasty to label Fredette as a professional bust just yet.
For more NBA news, check out NBA Draft 2011: Which March Madness Stars Will Declare for the Draft?
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