March 15, 2011

[...] In addition to Singleton, the Seminoles (arguably Division 1's best nickname) offer plenty more quality big men. The headline maker thus far this season has been Bernard James, the 26 year old former soldier who only recently started playing basketball, but who quickly proved to be rather good at it. James chips in 8.4 points in 20 minutes per game, shooting .654% from the field, which ranks second in the nation amongst players with enough attempts to qualify. He does this on a series of lefty layups, hooks, and occasional jumpers - James only goes left, and no one seems to stop him doing so. Offensive productivity aside, BJ is best served as a rebounder, and as an active, athletic and strong interior defender. 6'8 sophomore Terrance Shannon plays much the same sort of game as James does, except without the size or the touch. 6'11 junior Xavier Gibson is the best prospect of the lot, although the overdue breakout he began earlier this season was stalled due to injury that he has done well to come back from. As is often the close with the Seminoles, Gibson is big, athletic and intriguing, although his affinity for a not-very-good jumpshot is clearly taking preference to learning how to create and finish in the post. And behind them all is yet another monster of a man - 7'0 junior Jon Kreft, who's built like an old Joel Przybilla yet who fouls like a young Joel Przybilla, and who once got done for cocaine possession. Whilst none of these players have realised their full potential yet, there are a relentless number of options here.

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