There is a big question going around that is unclear and that is what will Hasheem Thabeet do. His rep Oliver Noah hasn’t been real clear and UCONN coach Jim Calhoun says "too many people in his ear", so it’s kind of hard to figure out what the 7’3, 265 pound center decides on, will he go pro or develop a second year at UCONN.
He is a good runner on the floor for his size, does a decent job of getting in position in the post, and he’s a good shot blocker. He has nice hands, and many great physical tools. He is a decent rebounder, and he also has decent post moves. Hasheem has some upper body strength has room to build more, he is also very athletic.
He needs to improve on his offensive skills, become a better free throw shooter, and work on his back to the basket game. He also could work on his footwork, boxing out, and his court awareness. Hasheem is not a very good finisher at the basket, he needs a few years to develop and understand basketball fundamentals since he is still new to the game. With his size and speed combination, and a player with talent who hasn’t even come close to his potential, teams would be willing to take him and develop him slow.
He has been compared to Dikembe Mutombo with a much stronger body. He is a rare player that could be taken anywhere from 20-40 in the draft. Most of my regular readers know how I feel about big men leaving early without being ready, I don’t agree with it, but it’s not my choice to make. But as for my view on what Hasheem Thabeet should do, I believe he should come back at least one year to develop some more and get a better understanding on playing basketball. Due to family situations the NBA money could help provide a better living for them instantly, so after next year declare for the draft and he should be a top 20 pick. He’ll probably be sent to the NBDL for more development and can start getting an understanding on the NBA game. I would give him about four years before we see his complete full developed talent.
