BIG MAN STILL A PROJECT

Among the college basketball writers I read most often and highly respect is Andy Katz of ESPN.com.
Last month, I was reading one of his Daily Word entries when I came across an interesting line. He had been in town and saw UConn play and then had a quote from an unnamed NBA scout saying the raw athleticism and potential of Hasheem Thabeet had at least one team questioning if the 7-foot-3 big man could be the No. 1 pick instead of seemingly consensus top choice Greg Oden.
I couldn’t believe the words the first time and after watching Oden, and Ohio State, on TV Saturday and then catching Hasheem in person Sunday, that belief seems crazier than ever.
Don’t get me wrong, I think Thabeet is going to be a great pro — thus far, I’m on the divided side of UConn beat writers that thinks he’s one year and done, granted Jim Calhoun’s power could make our entire argument one not worth having — but he’s no where near as polished. Oden, on the wrong hand, is playing with complete dominance and looks, for lack of a better term, wise beyond his years.
I think teammate A.J. Price’s opinion of Thabeet is the most realistic and appropriate. The point guard said he’s not surprised by where Hasheem is so far, but quickly pointed out how much of a defensive presence is.
The best thing people can do for Thabeet is simply take him for what he is for now. Because once everything falls into place, you’re talking about one of most unique players in the country. Till then, I’m sure there’re 300-plus schools that wouldn’t mind having him just the way he is.