The 2007 NBA draft is chalk full of talent with a number of prospects good enough to be playing in the NBA right now. Even with all the talent available, the top two players are already known, Ohio State’s Greg Oden and Texas’ Kevin Durant.
Oden is the kind of big man that comes around once a decade. He is a 7’0” center with an NBA ready body of 280 pounds. Oden is averaging 15.2 points and 9.5 rebounds per game, and he has done it with a sore right wrist. He is also a difference maker on the defensive end of the floor.
One of the most impressive things about Oden is he is shooting over 60% from the field. He will be far more dangerous once he gets to the next level, and plays with some veteran guards who know how to get him the ball in the right spots.
Durant has not only been the best freshman in college basketball this season, he has been the best player period. He is a legitimate 6'10”, but he needs to add bulk to his thin frame.
Durant looks like a small forward right now in the NBA, and he has the outside shooting and quickness to play there. His numbers this season have been breathtaking, with 25.4 points and 11.6 rebounds per game. Durant has been even better in Big 12 play, scoring over 32 per contest.
If that wasn’t enough, Durant can also pass the basketball and block shots. Simply put, he is a tremendous offensive prospect right now, who should shine on defense once he gets stronger.
Greg Oden’s Buckeyes are currently 5:1 to win the NCAA championship, while Durant’s Longhorns are at 25:1.
NBA Future: DeMarcus Cousins DeMarcus Cousins is a big PF who averaged 26 pts, 15 rebounds, 10 assists, 70% FG and 80% FT per game as a freshman in high school last year. DeMarcus Cousins has developing post moves, is an excellent rebounder, and a solid athlete. DeMarcus Cousins' ability to overpower players gives him a very high ceiling. DeMarcus Cousins has a 7'3" wingspan and 9'0" standing reach. DeMarcus Cousins is very raw. DeMarcus Cousins needs to work on his footwork and decision making mostly. DeMarcus Cousins offense is coming along fine, but he needs to become more of a leader on defense. DeMarcus Cousins consistency is also a problem against top competition.
NBA Future: Jrue Holiday
Check out Jrue Holiday, the 6-3 sophomore shooting guard from North Hollywood (Calif.) Campbell Hall, one of the elite guards in the west, regardless of class...
Jrue Holiday, the 6-3 sophomore shooting guard from North Hollywood (Calif.) Campbell Hall, is seen here in action from a CIF playoff game last week.
Jrue Holiday is #21 in white, not to be confused with his older brother, 6-6 junior Justin Holiday, who is #22.
NBA Future: Dashonte Riley
H.S. Detroit Cass Tech
Age: 14
Sport: Basketball. She starts on the varsity basketball team.
Family: Mother, Collette Anderson; twin sister, Daisha Riley, 14
What surprises you the most about high school? "There is way more kids in school. In basketball, the speed of the game is faster."
Favorite subject: Math
Least favorite subject: Science
What are your goals for high school? "To graduate and to continue to learn."
