Arizona
Bennedict Mathurin – Sophomore – Arizona – 6’7, 195 lbs – June 2002
Mathurin has clearly taken the desired and expected sophomore leap, building on the momentum he had at the Fiba U19’s this summer. Despite a lower three-point shooting percentage this season, Mathurin is getting them up at a higher volume and shooting more of the move and off the dribble than last season. His shot mechanics are very smooth, using a high release point and elevation on his jumper to separate himself from the defense.
Mathurin went for 30 points in the game I saw, hitting five threes. He also excelled in transition, running the floor well and finishing around the rim. The half-court offense wasn’t anything special. He struggled to win some one-on-ones, and isn’t much of a playmaker when attacking (he finished with one assist and five turnovers against Illinois). His handle isn’t at the level you need from an NBA wing.
Mathurin is clearly a good player who offers enough shooting and team defense to stick in the league for a long time. But, he left me wanting more from a self-creation and half-court offense perspective. He’s a good college defender, but not great and he doesn’t look like the alleged 6’7 he’s been listed at. ]Given the lack of productivity from other prospects in this class, it’s hard not to appreciate this productivity on a top ten team. He feels a bit one-dimensional, but I feel safe about him as a late-lottery/mid-first-round caliber prospect and as someone who can play in the league for a long time,
Christian Koloko – Junior – Arizona – 7’1, 225 lbs – June 2000
One of the most improved players in the country, Koloko’s physical and on-court growth has been noticeable. He created havoc for Kofi Cockburn, holding him to 5-15 shooting with five turnovers, one of his worst collegiate games. Koloko still lacks some core and upper body strength but, he looks much stronger from a year ago. His elite length and timing allow him to recover when pushed off his spot.
Illinois’ defensive gameplan centered around taking away the lob pass on pick-and-rolls, so Koloko finished with just four points on 2-7 shooting. His lack of strength led to some problems finishing and while his footwork has improved, it’s still not at an NBA level. His plus wingspan projects for a role as a lob threat.
Koloko started playing basketball at the age of 12, so even as a junior he still has a lot of room to grow. Even if he’s never a great passer or face-up threat, I buy he can thrive in a minimized role as a finisher. Long-term, Koloko can be a defensive anchor and someone who can log playoff minutes, which gives him first-round value in my eyes.