NBA Draft 2021: Evaluation of Western Kentucky center Charles Bassey
By Maceo Baller
NBA FIT AND EXPECTATIONS
Charles Bassey appears in most mainstream big boards in the 20s/ back of the 1st Round range as of today. Naturally, he’s seen a unique and ready-made prospect for the NBA because of his D impact.
The high-energy big/anchor archetype is fully translatable and most franchises would make use of his speed, reactivity, and athleticism even if it’s only for short periods. Can Bassey outgrow that primary role and become a versatile big man who creates offense in different ways? Is his shot here to stay? And has he real upside as a passer?
• @WoodenAward Late Season Top 20 Watch List
— WKU Hilltopper Basketball (@WKUBasketball) February 1, 2021
• @NaismithTrophy Player of the Year Watch List
• Naismith Defensive Player of the Year Watch List
• Lute Olson Award National Player of the Year Watch List
• Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Center of the Year Top 10https://t.co/UGWt8kRWH5
It seems Bassey will initially earn PT thanks to his defensive prowess and bankable skills (rim protection, rebounding…), then exploit his mobility to stay on the floor a bit longer. On the other end, even if he’s just asked to go to work down low and cut TOs, his impact should be significant. It goes without saying that shooting from behind the arc in the stretch-5 mold is Bassey’s swing factor as a pro. Shooting consistency is a must. Passing and improved vision would be the ice on the cake.
With all things being said, we shouldn’t forget about Bassey’s feel for the game and strong mindset. He’s gone lengths to be where he is at, crossed oceans being just a child, played through the unknown and the tiredness, beaten injuries and adversity, worked always the extra mile. And he’s lead WKY basketball with facts, not just rankings and stars. The process makes you mature.
The outcome of a handful of CBB awards await resolution at the end of the season, but surely Bassey’s best award would be going in a deep run in March Madness with WKY. The Hilltoppers boast an impressive non-conference resume with wins over Alabama, Louisville, and Memphis, but they might need to win the C-USA championship after some stumbles in league play.
Next. Latest NBA Draft stock watch. dark
Whether Bassey takes the central stage in the National Tournament or during his rookie season in the NBA it’s easy to forget he’s just a 20yo boy from Lagos. There will be plenty of challenges ahead and other giants to face on the court. Just don’t act like you are surprised when he comes towering above them.