G: Jacari Lane (JR)
Height/Weight: 6’0”/182 lbs.
Previous School: North Alabama
2024-25 Stats: 17.3 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 4.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 40.6% 3pt
Offensive Impact
Lane’s jump shot has improved drastically in each of his 3 seasons in college hoops. Volume and percentage have increased from 3pt range every year at North Alabama.
39.3% from 3 off the bounce last season.
Low volume off the catch, but he shot 41.4% from 3 on 59 attempts.
Lane’s mid-range jumper is oddly inefficient (28.2% FG), but this isn’t an area to be overly concerned with due to coach Bucky McMillan’s offense being rim and 3 based.
Samford attempted just 84 mid-range jumpers last season under McMillan (4th percentile nationally), so we should expect Lane’s high mid-range volume to expand to the 3pt line this coming season.
Rim scoring ability most likely won’t translate to the SEC due to his small frame, but this isn’t a make or break trait for Lane.
His value inside the arc will either come from getting to the free throw line (81% career FT shooter) or using his burst off the dribble to get in the paint and kick out to open 3pt shooters.
Appears to be a solid decision maker when he gets into the painted area. Finds open shooters often.
He doesn’t display a ton of creativity on the ball, but he would rather use his above average burst to get to his spots.
Lane often takes what the defense is giving him. If the defense collapses he knows who to find, but he is also completely fine playing in isolation if defenses are willing to play him 1-on-1.
Fits the transition based McMillan offense due to his speed on the ball. The faster pace should help ease the pressure off him when it comes to being a floor general.
Overall, the fit makes a ton of sense on the offensive end, but the lack of inside the arc scoring is an obvious concern. Dealing with SEC speed and athleticism could make for a longer adjustment period for Lane, as he is a guy who tends to rely on his first step. If his shooting ability translates or takes another step forward this season, he will be fine, but if there is a dip in production from the perimeter, his value will drop a decent amount.
Defensive Impact
Quicker guard that fits the mold in a press heavy defensive scheme. Moves well laterally.
Does a nice job staying in front when guarding in isolation.
Obviously limited to guarding 1’s or 2’s due to his 6’0” frame. Has some trouble fighting through screens as well.
There could be more turnover forcing upside in his game than we’ve seen at UNA. He has active hands and forces tie ups often. Coach McMillan tapping into Lane’s more aggressive nature on this end could bring out the best in him.