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.
Miles Byrd
Position:Â Guard/Forward
School:Â San Diego State
Class:Â Sophomore
Height/Weight:Â 6'7", 190 lbs
Birthdate:Â September 8, 2004
High School: Lincoln (CA)
Player Overview
Miles Byrd is a defensive standout with a developing offensive game. His positional size (6'7" with a 7'0" wingspan) and instincts make him a disruptive force on defense, capable of deflecting passes, getting steals, and blocking shots. Offensively, Byrd’s patience, ball-handling, and developing ability to knock down three-pointers make him an emerging two-way contributor.
His journey from a redshirt to an impactful starter at San Diego State underscores his work ethic and growth. While his shot mechanics and finishing around the rim need refinement, his defensive instincts, motor, and ability to impact the game without dominating the ball will make him a valuable role player at the next level.
"Byrd brings versatility on both ends, like a Swiss Army Knife. However, it’s his ability to make things happen defensively that truly sets him apart." — Matt Babcock, NBA Draft Analyst
Strengths
Defensive Versatility:Â Lengthy wingspan and instincts allow him to disrupt passing lanes, contest shots, and protect the rim.
Positional Size and Mobility:Â Good size for a wing with solid coordination and body control.
Secondary Playmaker:Â Can handle the ball when needed and shows good patience to find open teammates.
Motor and Activity:Â Constantly in motion on both ends, with active hands and awareness in defensive closeouts.
Floor Spacing Potential:Â Comfortable stepping into three-pointers, especially as a secondary break option.
Concerns
Shot Mechanics and Consistency:Â Needs to refine his form to improve long-distance efficiency and consistency.
Limited Offensive Separation:Â Lacks an elite first step, making creating space off the dribble harder.
Finishing Through Contact:Â Struggles against stronger opponents when driving to the basket.
Shot Selection:Â Needs to avoid forcing contested shots and improve decision-making.
Mobility Concerns with Added Strength:Â As his frame fills out, his defensive agility and closeouts may be impacted.
Questions
What type of ceiling does he have at the next level?
Will adding strength hinder his mobility and ability to defend effectively?
Can he develop into a reliable playmaker and decision-maker offensively?
What is his most effective role and position in the NBA?
Bottom Line
Miles Byrd is an intriguing prospect who possesses positional size, a high basketball IQ, and motor that impacts both ends of the floor. His ability to disrupt defensively and his emerging offensive game, including long-distance shooting and secondary playmaking, make him a potential two-way contributor at the NBA level. To maximize his potential, Byrd must refine his shot mechanics, improve his finishing through contact, and continue developing his offensive creativity. With the proper role and development, Byrd has the tools to carve out a meaningful NBA career.