Introduction
Breaking down the smooth lefty guard from Columbia.
44 – Barack Obama Columbia University
Birthday: 8/4/1961
NBA Position: Point Guard
Class: Senior
Ht: 6-2
Wt: 180 lbs
Hometown: Honolulu, HI
High School: Punahou High School
Athleticism – 6
Size – 5
Defense – 7
Strength – 6
Quickness – 8
Leadership – 10
Jump Shot – 9
NBA Ready – 6
Ball Handling – 8
Potential – 10
Passing – 9
Intangibles – 10
Overall – 94
NBA Comparison (Best Case Scenario): Lenny Wilkins
NBA Comparison (Worst Case Scenario): Randolph Childress
Strengths: The one thing that impresses scouts about Obama is his great basketball mind. He doesn’t have the pure athletic talent to compete with most in the NBA, but his mind makes up for it. He will make the extra pass and is a great teammate. Height will probably force him to play the point in the NBA, or possibly as a spot-up shooter late in games. His quick lefty release allows him to get his shot off against taller players. Has a nice first step off the dribble and plays passing lanes well on defense. Doesn’t force many shots or passes, leading to a high efficiency rating on offense. Hustling and effort have never been a problem for him at any level. Wants the ball in pressure situations, and has always been on successful teams. His leadership skills are off the charts, and his affect in the locker room alone could be enough to get him a spot on a team. Basically, he is an extension of the coach on the court. Has all the makings of a future executive of some sorts once playing days are over.
Weaknesses: Just looking at his information above, one may question if he can actually hang on a NBA floor. Some also wonder if he can handle the size and strength in the NBA you don’t normally see at the local rec center around an Ivy League school. Defenders have had success forcing him right and making him beat them off the dribble. It has been documented that he is still in the process of kicking a smoking habit, so stamina issues could occur. Seems to be afraid of contact, but added muscle could help him in that department. Another 10 pounds of muscle could be put on his frame and he would still retain his overall quickness. With most great players now coming out early, one wonders if he has already reached his peak. Could find a niche in the NBA as a role player if he can accept that. However, he is only used to be the focal point of a team on the offensive end. Has expressed interest in attending law school after graduation, so one wonders if his heart is completely in basketball.
Teams interested: Celtics, Cavaliers, Bulls, Wizards and Knicks
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