Strengths: Gibson has tremendous length and athleticism plus shooting touch making him an effective offensive player … He runs the floor very well, and despite a lack of bulk, he’s willing to fight for rebounds and defend … Excellent rebounder, his quickness and leaping ability help him grab balls out of his immediate area … He’s explosive and has a good skill level offensively in the post … His huge wingspan makes him a good shot blocker (1.9 per game)… Has very good touch around the rim and uses the turnaround hook shot as well as facing up from mid range and knocking down shots consistently … Plays aggressively, which helps him get to the line a good deal … Although his aggressiveness on defense can lead to foul problems … Has big soft hands, catches the ball well, although he’ll need to limit his turnovers some … Had a solid freshman season, and will look to add consistency and become more of a go to player along with OJ Mayo at USC this year …

Weaknesses: At 22 years of age, Gibson is still very skinny so there is some doubt about how much muscle he can add to his thin frame … He can be a finesse post guy with his ability to use his length as well as score from midrange, but his inability to bang as a 4 limits his overall potential … Gibson will likely look to leave school early as he will be 23 by the next draft, while he’s seen as a more NBA ready guy which is a good thing, he’s also looked at as a guy with less potential to develop as his body is closer to full maturation at 22 than younger prospects … Needs to improve upon his free throw shooting (62%) but has a good stroke …

Notes: Gibson was leading the way as USC had North Carolina in trouble in the third round of the tourney last year, but Gibson getting into foul trouble led to UNC’s comeback and eventual victory. Gibson was significantly outplaying the Tar Heels post players (Hansbrough and B.Wright) …