Remember back at the start of the year when we noted that Jerryd Bayless would be wearing #0 at the University of Arizona, just like Gilbert? Well, it’s not the only thing that Jerryd seems to be have in common Gilbert. Just check out his scouting report on NBAdraft.net and tell me it isn’t Gilbert-esque:

Strengths: In a word: special. Bayless combines incredible speed, quickness and athleticism with a high level of intelligence and composure … Winners mentality … He really excels on the offensive end of the floor with his scoring ability … Has an extra gear blowing by defenders with ease, and needs just an inch of daylight to get his jumpshot off … Excellent body strength for his age … He understands how to create shots for himself and has incredible leaping ability … Very strong offensively, great form on his shot … Plays with a high level of intensity … Good defender, team player. Has leadership ability …

Weaknesses: Must become better at running the PG position … More of a scoring point, but his PG abilities are improving … Can be prone to trying to do too much, must be more patient and composed … Still hasn’t sustained himself as an elite level player for an extended period of time.

Now for comparison, here’s Gilbert’s profile from back in ‘01:

Strengths: A clutch player with great athleticism and quickness….. Has a great three point stroke and creates well off the dribble…… Very crafty getting his shots off…. Leads by example. Very good competitor.

Weaknesses: At 6-3 doesn’t have ideal height… Height hurts him especially defensively where opposing guards can post up and pass/shoot over him.

If that wasn’t enough, here’s a statistical breakdown of their respective freshman seasons:

All Jerryd needs now is a little bit more quirkiness and he should be set.