Bryce Hamilton may have played his last game for UNLV, as the Rebels were eliminated from the Mountain West Tournament by Utah State.
Hamilton capped an underwhelming season with 16 on 7 of 19 shooting. As usual, he was UNLV’s lone playmaker and couldn’t help create an efficient offense against the Aggies defense.
But now the attention turns to Hamilton’s future. The junior guard could simply return to UNLV and finish out his college career as a Rebel.
But Hamilton might have more options. He could try to turn pro or even transfer away to a different school with a better chance to make the NCAA Tournament next season. (Oregon did just that for Shakur Juiston and Amauri Hardy.)
When asked if he has put any thought into whether he will return to UNLV or not, Hamilton said, “I’ve just been focused on the season going on right now. Now that it’s over, it’s something I probably have to think about.”
There is nothing to take away from that.
Hamilton is an interesting case. Because he is likely far away from being drafted into the NBA. He’d probably even have a difficult time making an NBA Summer League roster.
But the NBA is not the only professional league. The G league exists in North America and there are plenty of leagues in Europa and Asia.
Hamilton’s transfer prospects would be interesting. His top skill set is creating his own shot – from the mod range. He doesn’t defend or shoot from three particularly well. But he can get his shot up.
The problem for another school is looking at Hamilton’s efficiency. Nationally, 100 players had a usage rating of 28 percent or higher. Hamilton ranked 91st in offensive efficiency.
Hamilton either has to be the third offensive option or be playing with two other high-level ball handlers.
The opportunities for good fits will likely be small for Hamilton.
T.J. Otzelberger said they will let the players go home for the next week or so (since they missed the chance to go home for Christmas due to a COVID pause). Then the coaches will have player meetings to evaluate the future.
Hamilton won’t be the only player that could exit Las Vegas this offseason.