IN THE GAME

Overlook: Has established his name among the continent’s elite centers over the years. Has found a second home in Athens. Winner of two Euroleague titles. Extremely productive. Back to full fitness after an injury-plagued 07/08 campaign.

Strengths: A highly effective pick and roll big man that can put up huge numbers when having strong passers at his side to feed him the ball – which is the case at Panathinaikos. Knows exactly where to be on the court, possesses outstanding hands to catch bullet passes, as well as a soft touch to finish around the rim. Excellent understanding of when to throw the pump fake and when to slam the ball without hesitation. Not an above-average leaper, but quite explosive. Doesn’t always roll all the way to the basket, but sometimes stops for the short jumper, which he’s very effective on. Solid but not outstanding lowpost player, can hit the fadeaway as well as the short jump hook with his right hand. Decent positional defender due to solid footwork and a smart basketball mind. Blocks a shot here and there. Smooth, coordinated movement. A highly efficient player.

Weaknesses: Doesn’t possess a left hand. Lowpost game does not match his skill as a pick and roll player. Undersized for a center. Sometimes a risk for the offensive foul in the post, when he posts up too aggressively.