Ben Vander Plas

Updated as of 6/28/23. Scouting report written by Alan Lu.
2023 rankings were finalized on 6/22/23.

Height: 6-8
Weight: 232
College: Virginia
Classification: Sixth-Year Senior
Birthdate: 9/19/1998

Projected Draft Range: Likely Undrafted

Pros:
Decent low post scorer
Excels at scoring on off-ball motion plays
Decent playmaker
Adequate defender
Solid motor

Cons:
Needs to improve his shooting
Struggles to consistently create his own shot
Lacks an elite first step off the dribble
Not an elite ball handler
Needs to improve his rebounding
Only an average athlete

Summary:
Ben Vander Plas is a skilled big man that recently played at Ohio before transferring to Virginia.  He is a versatile scorer that can score in the post, and is a capable outside shooter. He’s also an unselfish player that passes the ball well, especially for a player his size. He’s not an overwhelming athlete, but his offensive skills and feel for the game have enabled him to thrive at the collegiate level.

He had a solid junior season, and he helped lead Ohio to an impressive first-round win over Virginia in the 2021 NCAA Tournament.  Recently, he decided to transfer to Virginia for the 2022-23 college basketball season. He will need to improve his jump shot and show that he can guard more athletic players on a consistent basis, but his motor and feel for the game could enable him to carve out a solid playing career in professional basketball.

Links:
RealGM Profile
Ohio Basketball Bio
The Daily Progress’ Article on Vander Plas Transferring to Virginia

Games Scouted:
3/20/21 Ohio vs. Virginia

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