NBA Comparison: Carlos Boozer/Sean May

Strengths: Broad shoulders and burly body have the potential to be chiseled into a vintage power forward … Has dramatically improved his conditioning since he arrived on campus, but work remains to be done … Works hard on the court as well as off it, hustling down court on fast breaks more often than many others his size. … Impossible to stop when he’s moving forward in the paint because of his size. … Very soft touch combined with a willingness to go with a layup instead of a risky dunk … Developing instincts as far as passing out of double teams … Perhaps the most improved player in the country between his freshman and sophomore seasons, and the room to grow is still obvious … Hounds the boards and boxes out well. Also has great hands and doesn’t lose many balls he gets to … Playing in a flex offense system that thrives on the fast break has allowed him experience at playing all sorts of roles on the court, from high post to wing to his most natural low post spot. … Agility well above average allows him to control his balance and footwork in post … Shows a high motor and desire to compete and improve …

Weaknesses: Still a bit out of shape and lumbers at times because he’s always running up and down the court. Plays hard but not always smart … Still needs to improve at feeling a double team rather than turning into it before realizing he needs to pass … Lacks ideal length and often seems to be at his worse when longer, taller players smother him in the post. … Still developing his post moves, though they’ve come a long way since his freshman season. … Jump shot is generally off, despite seamless mechanics and a feathery touch around the basket. Looks like a natural shooter from 15 feet, but the shots just don’t go in. Particularly from the line – 50% … May not be a true 6-foot-10.

Adi Joseph 1/12/11