Pre-Draft Stats

PTS REB AST STL BLK FG% 3P% FT% EFG% PER
12.0 6.8 1.9 1.8 1.2 49.6 38.7 72.2 57.7 24.5
Sales Pitch
An intriguing hard-nosed defender who thrives in spot-up situations and is a sneaky good playmaker.
Background
It's not a mistake that Auburn missed their versatile defender during their late tourney run. After a strong showing in the NCAA tournament, Chuma Okeke suffered an ACL injury and will likely spend his rookie year rehabbing and coming along slowly. But there's plenty to like about the former Auburn Tiger. Only a Sophomore, NBA teams will see Okeke as a potential "scoop" on draft night. His calling card is his defensive potential, as he's an intelligent defender that projects to be an asset in switchable situations.
Pro Comparison
Robert Covington with some Donyell Marshall
Positives

OUTSIDE SHOOTING

  • Projects to be an effective outside shooter especially in spot up situations. Has the potential to be a pick-and-pop asset.

INSTINCTS

  • Shows good Basketball IQ on the offensive side of the ball when it comes to knowing when to cut. Good vision as a passer, especially out of the post.

DEFENSIVE POTENTIAL

  • Defense is going to be his calling card. Very intelligent defender who can read offenses and make the proper rotations. 
Negatives

OFF THE DRIBBLE

  • Doesn't create much offense and needs to add some versatility to his game. Struggles shooting off the bounce.

ATHLETICISM

  • Below average athleticism, which hurts him especially when he's trying to finish around the rim. Lacks quickness. 

DEFENSIVE FUNDAMENTALS

  • Can be described as a bit stiff on the defensive side of the ball. Needs to clean up some bad habits so he can become a versatile defender at the next level. 
Overall
Chuma Okeke was starting to gain some serious traction in NBA circles before an ACL injury in the tournament put a brief halt to the hype train. Still, there should be plenty on Film that will have teams intrigued with his future skillset at the next level. He's a prototypical stretch 4 that should become a valuable asset on the defensive side of the ball. A team picking towards the late first/early second range would be wise to take a flier.
Birthplace

Atlanta, GA
United States

NBA Team
Orlando Magic
Draft Selection
16
Twitter
@chuma_okeke
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