Draft Profile: UConn C Hasheem Thabeet

Hasheem Thabeet #34 College: Connecticut Class: Junior NBA Position: Center Height: 7'3" Weight: 267 lbs Birthday: 2/16/1987

Player Biography: A native of Tanzania, Hasheem Thabeet attended high school in Houston, where he intrigued colleges with his size and potential. He committed to Jim Calhoun and Connecticut, who viewed Thabeet as a major project. His freshman year, Thabeet averaged 6.8 points and 3.8 blocks. Though he considered entering the NBA Draft, Thabeet decided to return to school for his sophomore campaign. He showed his potential, averaging 10.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 4.5 block. For his efforts, Thabeet was named both the Big East and National Defensive Player of the Year. Now, with another year of experience under his belt, Thabeet has shown he is one of college basketball's biggest difference makers and a potential top-five selection in the 2009 NBA Draft.

Strengths: • Incredible Size • Defensive presence • Shot-blocking ability • Mobility (for his size) • High shooting percentage • Solid free throw shooter • Upside

Weaknesses: • Offensive skill • Rebounding • Post footwork • Hands • Strength • Passing • Basketball IQ • Man-to-man defense • Lateral quickness

Links:
• Connecticut Player Bio: Hasheem Thabeet
• ESPN: Hasheem Thabeet Statistics