2014 big man Payton Dastrup brings inside-outside game

Payton Dastrup is one of the most difficult big men to matchup with in the class of 2014, because of his ability to knock down shots from the perimeter. A long list of schools are interested.

Payton Dastrup's perimeter shooting touch makes him a difficult matchup for most opponents. (AFN)

LAS VEGAS – At 6-foot-9 with excellent touch, 2014 prospect Payton Dastrup is known more as a finesse big man than one who can bang with opponents in the paint.

As a result, his battle with Jahlil Okafor – arguably the best low-post prospect regardless of class – was undoubtedly intriguing. Dastrup’s Arizona Select team took the loss, but he was able to get his own shot and didn’t get dominated defensively.

“I took all the time I needed to prepare,” Dastrup said. “I need to work on my footspeed and back to the basket moves to catch up [with Okafor].”

For now, Dastrup’s ability to step out and knock down shots creates numerous matchup problems for opponents, while he is also highly effective along the baseline and in the mid-range area. He is also not afraid of contact and can finish at the rim.

Most of the Pac-12 is interested, along with Utah State, BYU , UC-Davis , Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas Tech, Oklahoma State, Michigan, Virginia, Florida, Boston College and Georgetown.

While Utah , USC and Stanford are coming at him hard, Arizona State and Arizona – the in-state schools – are making the most progress so far.

“I’m more familiar with their campuses,” Dastrup said.

The Mountain View (Ariz.) product is ranked No. 36 in the class of 2014.