STRENGTHS:

+ Competitiveness
+ Power
+ Speed
+ Vertical leap

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Size
- Versatility

A small defender out of Perth, Oscar Hine-Baston improved exponentially in 2023 to keep his name in AFL Draft contention. The over-ager returned numbers of 15.3 disposals, 2.3 marks, 3.3 tackles and 5.5 rebound 50s for Western Australia, as well as 15.0 disposals, 2.8 marks and 2.5 tackles at WAFL Colts level.

Hine-Baston played his role in Perth's grand final loss to Claremont, and though he is not a huge accumulator of the footy, has shown a high level of competitiveness. The latter factor saw him tasked with roles on a number of dangerous forwards at the National Championships, including Nick Watson and Jack Delean.

A natural power athlete with speed and a huge leap for his size, Hine-Baston certainly has eye-catching traits. Weighing in at 72kg, Hine-Baston is still light bodied to compete against AFL opponents. More of a long-term prospect, Hine-Baston could develop into a dual lockdown-offensive defender, and is eligible as a West Coast NGA member.

DRAFT RANGE: Late/Rookie