NCAA Basketball: 20 breakout candidates for 2016-17
20. Zylan Cheatham (San Diego State)
Sophomore Zylan Cheatham is a former four-star recruit out of Phoenix, AZ, who was remarkably productive in his first season of college basketball.
The 6’7″ forward averaged 7.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, blocked 0.7 shots and shot 53 percent from the field in 20.8 minutes per game.
Cheatham is long, absurdly athletic, strong and has an excellent motor.
In Viejas Arena for SDSU vs Washington. Super-athlete Zylan Cheatham showing off his bounce. pic.twitter.com/HhEmhTydx2
— Mike Schmitz (@Mike_Schmitz) March 22, 2016
With his unique physical tools, Cheatham is versatile enough to guard multiple positions defensively (both three and four) and is a solid scorer in the painted area. The forward has decent ball handling skills but has almost no mid-range and three point jump shot. He shot 18 percent from beyond the three point line in year one.
Because of his defensive energy and toughness, Cheatham fits the Aztecs’ scheme perfectly. He’s not a great rim protector, but his ability to switch is helpful when defending in half court settings.
San Diego State is lacking in the front court with the departures of Skylar Spencer, Angelo Chol and Winston Shepard, so Cheatham should play more than 20 minutes per night in year two. That increased role will likely result in greater production.
If the sophomore can develop some touch on his jump shot, he could become a very special player for Steve Fisher and company.
Next: 19. Matisse Thybulle