Throughout the 2024-25 season, Babcock Hoops will provide comprehensive scouting reports on top 2025 NBA Draft prospects, analyzing their strengths, questions, and potential at the next level. Our reports offer an in-depth look at each player's development and draft outlook.
Ben Saraf
Position: Guard
Team: Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)
Class: International
Height/Weight: 6'6", 200 lbs
Birthdate: April 14, 2006
Previous Team: Elitzur Kiryat Ata (Israel)
Player Overview
Ben Saraf is a skilled and versatile guard who combines size, basketball IQ, and poise to excel as a playmaker and scorer. At 6'6", Saraf demonstrates advanced ability in pick-and-roll scenarios, using his vision and timing to exploit defensive rotations. His ball-handling under pressure allows him to maintain composure against aggressive defenses, while his passing precision sets him apart as a facilitator. Saraf's scoring ability, particularly as a crafty finisher and mid-range threat, adds another layer to his offensive game.
Despite his strengths, Saraf's wiry frame limits him against physical defenders, and his three-point shooting remains inconsistent. Additionally, his defensive discipline needs refinement, as he tends to reach too often, leading to unnecessary fouls. Improving his strength, shooting consistency, and defensive fundamentals will be key for Saraf to maximize his potential at higher levels.
"Everyone loves crafty, creative playmakers with size, and that’s exactly what Saraf brings to the table. Needless to say, he’s an intriguing prospect." — Matt Babcock, NBA Draft Analyst
Strengths
Pick-and-Roll Playmaking: Advanced ability to read defenses, deliver precise passes, and create scoring opportunities for himself and teammates.
Ball-Handling Under Pressure: Handles traps and aggressive defenses with composure, leveraging a tight handle and poise.
Court Vision and Passing: Exceptional ability to anticipate rotations and deliver accurate passes, utilizing his height to see over defenses.
Crafty Finishing: Creative around the rim, using angles and touch to score effectively in traffic.
Concerns
Strength and Physicality: Wiry frame limits his ability to finish through contact and defend stronger opponents.
Defensive Discipline: Prone to reaching and unnecessary fouls; needs improvement in footwork and fundamentals.
Three-Point Shooting: Inconsistent shooting from deep; refining mechanics and improving percentages are critical for his development.
Questions
Can Saraf improve his strength to handle physicality on both ends of the court?
Will his three-point shooting consistency improve to make him a reliable off-ball threat?
Can he refine his defensive fundamentals to become a consistent and disciplined defender?
Bottom Line
Ben Saraf is an intelligent and versatile guard with the size and skill set to excel at the next level. His ability to orchestrate the pick-and-roll, handle pressure, and make high-IQ reads make him a valuable prospect. Saraf must improve his strength, shooting, and defensive consistency to maximize his potential. With these improvements, he has the tools to develop into a high-impact guard capable of contributing to multiple facets of the game.
Stay ahead of the game! Check out the Babcock Hoops 2025 NBA Draft Big Board to discover the top-ranked prospects and their potential draft positions.