This pit-bull of a short stick who owns an imposing frame and noteworthy speed recently committed to Mercer. His size and speed enable Bruce to work as a relentless on-ball defender. Bruce excels at getting into ball carriers early in their dodge and then causing turnovers via heavy stick checks or a well-timed crowbar. This SSDM has also demonstrated that he can play a patient style of defense and turn a ball carrier multiple times before causing a turnover. Once the ball hits the turf, Bruce’s tenacity and aggressive stick allow him to secure possession in a crowd. Bruce will then move to open space and drop the ball off to a teammate or step on the gas and push the transition game. His change of direction moves, and ability run through contact will get Bruce deep into the offensive end where he is a threat to shoot or distribute. Bruce’s high IQ and quick reactions enable him to flawlessly execute slides, hedges, double teams, and recoveries. 

Possessing raw athleticism and a lanky 6’2, 170-pound frame, Bruce has shown some promise at the SSDM position. The lefty showed flashes during some highly competitive games on the first day of Naptown, coming up big off the wing and showing well in the middle of the field. Bruce has strong lateral footwork and is formidable when it comes to covering the ball behind the cage and at GLE when called upon. He plays angles well, and if and when he gets beat, he has the speed to make a recovery and get back in position. Moving forward, I’d like to see him initiate contact more frequently and continue to be more consistent with his technique, so I’ll be curious to see what kind of strides he’s made when he’s out there on the November circuit.