Texas Tech Basketball: Analyzing 3 qualities that make Kevin Obanor special

Basketball IQ

While Kevin Obanor may be a sniper from the 3-pt line, only about 26% of his scoring came from 3-pt shots last season. If you dive into his film, you will see the 6’8 big man often using his basketball IQ to make smart cuts and post moves that create space and throw off defenders. If a defender is denying him from the 3-pt line, he uses quick cuts towards the basket often catching defenders by surprise resulting in an easy layup or mid-range shot. If defenders give him space on the perimeter, he has no fear of catching and shooting from any distance. His high basketball IQ is what allows him to make these split-second decisions and it truly differentiates good and great players.

Obanor also uses his understanding of the game to rebound at a very efficient rate. At 6’8 230, he is rarely beat when going after boards. You can credit this to his ability to position himself properly and lower his frame for leverage against larger-bodied opponents.

His general understanding and feel for the game make him a very unique prospect. It’s rare to find a guy that can shoot, rebound, and make the correct in-game decisions on a nightly basis.

In summary, signing Kevin Obanor is without a doubt Texas Tech’s biggest offseason win. Pairing him with guys like Kevin McCullar & Terrence Shannon Jr who demand respect when attacking the rim should result in plenty of open shots for Obanor along the perimeter.

If he can buy into the defensive scheme Mark Adams will deploy, he will surely be one of Texas Tech’s best players next season. With defense being one of Obanors only question marks, he couldn’t have picked a better coach to help improve that aspect of his game.