Alex Oriakhi, Senior, Power Forward, Missouri
Overview:
Alex Oriakhi certainly fits the bill, the UConn big-man bill. He has shown better ability than Hilton Armstrong ever did in college. He has never been as consistently dominant as Emeka Okafor was though. Coming on strong in bursts during UConn’s championship run, Oriakhi must put together NBA-worthy performances night after night to reach that pedigree. And he has the ability to do so.
With the departure of Kemba Walker, much more of the scoring load will fall on Oriakhi’s shoulders, which should be a good thing. His defense and rebounding is already where it needs to be for a third year college player.
Final Projection:
By taking another step forward in 2011-2012, Alex Oriakhi can set himself up very nicely as a first round selection in the 2012 NBA draft. He is a defensive minded big body, an archetype that will always have a place on an NBA roster.
See all NBA Draft Profiles and Rankings
