Scouting reports from the Ohio State v. Wisconsin game- 2/25/07

OHIO ST.

Greg Oden - while not obviously explosive, Oden gets off the ground quickly and his extremely long arms and hands make it difficult to get a shot around him. Not as light on his feet as one would hope for a "once in a lifetime" player. Has a right handed hook shot from out to 10 feet, this shot will be an unstoppable go-to move if he can improve on its consistency. A physical player who has strength to maintain position against bigger centers. Great timing and reactions as a shot blocker. Has a soft touch around the rim, can catch and finish off theglass while twisting. Great body control, at one point got in the passing lane, tipped the ball and was able retain his balance and save the possession with a pass before falling out of bounce. While he is practically a can't miss prospect, he is not a perfect prospect: On offense, has to gather himself to jump and get to the hoop. Is not always the most active player on the court, so his rebounding numbers may not be as high in the NBA as one may expect.

NBA Comparison - A young Dikembe Mutumbo but with more of an offensive game.

Mike Conley - quick and small., but makes great decisions and plays with a maturity of a college senior.

NBA Comparison - Tyus Edney

Daquan Cook - very quick athlete with a beautiful stroke. A little undersized, but makes up for it with speed and athleticism.

NBA Comparison - JR Smith, but seems like Cook would play with more discipline.

WISCONSIN

Alando Tucker - very good looking catch and shoot jump shot-- has good rise and consistent, tight shooting form. Not that tall, Looks about6 ft 4 to 6 ft 5 and doesn't possess particularly long arms. Currently is used in the post, but won't have those opportunities in the NBA. Question will be whether his skills will translate well in the NBA (although I disagree with some scouting reports that consider him an undersized power forward--Tucker clearly has more perimeter skills to warrant such a statement). He might not be able to post up against taller shooting guards and small forwards. Hasn't showed the ability to create for himself from the perimeter, nor does he seem like a guy who can cut. A 2 footed jumper, a la Jason Richardson or Harold Miner. Doesn't have a lot of weaknesses, but also doesn't seem to do anything exceptionally well. Plays with a lot of heart, which is a quality that shouldn't be underestimated.

NBA Comparison - a smaller Jason Richardson, because of his solid jumper, strength, but lack of elite foot speed and quickness.