Crimson Crossovers: Christian Webster and Caron Butler

It truly is the most wonderful time of the year. On Dec. 25, we all shared in a gift that is way better than any Christmas sweater or box of chocolates. Yep, professional basketball is back. To ring in the good times, we at The Back Page have set out to find the best NBA match for several of Harvard’s own ballers. Which NBA player is most like each Crimson star? Keep reading to find out.

Christian Webster – 6.1 PPG, 2.2 RPG, .9 APG (2011-2012 season)

A solid defender and shooter throughout his three years at Harvard, Webster has displayed the ability to hit shots from both inside the arc and downtown. During his sophomore year, the Harvard wing shot a personal best 43.5 percent from the field, a number that proved good for second best among Crimson guards. This season against Boston University, Webster made six out of 10 field goals, including two three-pointers, for a total of 14 points. His ability to slash to the basket adds to his versatility and his 6’5, 205-pound frame makes him difficult to defend. Which NBA player possesses a similar skill set?

Caron Butler – 16.5 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 2.8 APG (Career)

Now with the Los Angeles Clippers, Butler will not be expected to be his team’s top scorer, just as Webster has taken a backseat offensively to co-captain Keith Wright and junior Kyle Casey. But Butler’s ability to both drive to the basket and connect with his jumper makes him a threat for opponents. At 6’7 and 217 pounds, Butler is taller than most guards, but not as bulky as many NBA forwards. This combination allows him to succeed at both putting the ball on the floor and pulling up for the J.

While Butler has a slight height advantage, he and Webster possess similar physiques and playing styles. Though Butler chooses to play inside-ball more than Webster does, both have decent shots and versatility, making them offensive weapons.