Offensive Strengths:

TJ Shellman is a pure scorer with one of the most polished offensive arsenals in the game. He thrives in isolation and excels at creating his own shot from anywhere on the floor. His mid-range game is elite, utilizing jab steps, pump fakes, and one-dribble pull-ups to generate clean looks. He has an uncanny ability to rise over defenders, making even contested shots look effortless.

Shellman is a three-level threat who can knock down threes off the dribble, in pick-and-pop situations, and as a spot-up shooter. His ability to get hot quickly makes him a game-changer, as he can go on scoring runs that shift momentum instantly. In the post, he has a deep bag of moves, including fadeaways, spin moves, and strong drop steps, making him a matchup nightmare for smaller defenders.

In transition, he’s a force, using his size and athleticism to finish through contact. When engaged, he can bully his way to the rim and has the touch to convert tough finishes.

Playmaking & Basketball IQ:

Although primarily known for his scoring, Shellman is also an exceptional passer. He has the vision and skill to make any read when defenses collapse on him, consistently finding open teammates across the court—especially from the high post or when driving into the lane. A key factor in his No. 1 ranking is his ability to process the game quicker than his opponents because of his deep understanding of the overall game. Despite playing with a constantly changing lineup the last two seasons, he seamlessly integrates new teammates, making them look as if they’ve been part of the system for years.