Amarii Bandele #13
Position: Forward
Height/Weight: 6’4”/205
Summary:
Amarii is an explosive, physically dominant forward who brings toughness, relentless energy, and elite switchability on defense. He excels at creating extra possessions through rebounding, punishing mismatches with power finishes, and generating game-changing momentum with effort plays. His combination of size, strength, and developing skill set makes him a high-upside two-way contributor at the next level.
Evaluation
Strengths & Skills
Physicality & Strength:
Overpowers defenders in 1-on-1 situations, finishing through contact around the rim.
Plays with a bruising, fearless style that allows him to control the paint and win physical battles.
Offensive Impact:
Dominates the glass for second-chance scoring opportunities, extending possessions with sheer effort.
Compact and repeatable shooting mechanics provide a strong foundation for future perimeter consistency.
Operates effectively as a screener, creating both dive and pop options in pick-and-roll actions.
Displays growing confidence in short-roll decision-making, finding shooters and cutters.
Improvisation & IQ:
Significant improvement in reading and responding to off-script scenarios over the past year.
Understands team concepts and spacing, enabling him to contribute without forcing plays.
Defensive Impact:
Switch Versatility:
Guards multiple positions (2–5) effectively by combining lateral agility with physical strength.
Neutralizes mismatches on the perimeter by pressuring ball-handlers and disrupting rhythm.
On-Ball Power & Disruption:
Creates turnovers through aggressive pressure and quick hands.
Uses size and leverage to push offensive players out of preferred spots.
Coverage Versatility
Effective in ball-screen defense, able to switch, hedge, or recover based on the game plan.
Transition & Energy Plays
Elite in dribble-release transition situations, turning defensive rebounds into quick scoring chances.
Runs the floor hard in transition, applying constant pressure on defenses and creating rim threats.
Intangibles
Brings an energy level that changes the tone of the game every time he enters the lineup.
Embraces physical challenges and thrives in high-contact, competitive environments.
His frame and effort provide time and space for skill development, ensuring long-term growth.
Brandon Payne’s Comments on Intangibles
“Amarii’s physicality and energy are game-changers. He embraces hard work and brings a toughness that every college program needs. His ability to dominate physically while continuing to expand his skill set makes his ceiling incredibly high. Coaches will love his competitive spirit and his willingness to do whatever it takes to win.”