Hardwood Houdini Draft Profiles
Ike Anigbogu: UCLA, Center
Height: 6’10″
Weight: 250 pounds
Age: 18
Click on the name for up to date stats: Ike Anigbogu
Strengths
Size:
Standing at 6’10” with a 7’6″ wingspan, while also being a solid 250 pounds, Anigbogu has great size at the center position. Although he only played 13 minutes per game for his freshman season, Anigbogu averaged four rebounds per game, which translates to 12.4 rebounds per 40 minutes. Additionally, 35% of his rebounds this season came on the offensive glass, which helped create extra possessions for the Bruins. Rebounding and bruising down low will be a big part of his game in the NBA.
Defensive Potential:
Anigbogu has the ability to become a great shot blocker in the NBA. He averaged 1.2 blocks in his 13 minutes of play this past season, and has great length at the center position. This length will become extremely useful when altering shots in the paint at the next level. His potential for elite rim protection makes him a very attractive prospect.
Weaknesses
Offensive Game/Skill set
Anigbogu is still extremely raw, and does not have an NBA ready skill set. His offensive production is almost exclusively centered around the rim with easy put-backs, lobs, and finishes. His offensive game does not extend far beyond the paint, and there is virtually no perimeter game. With the way that the NBA is constantly evolving, Anigbogu will need to work extremely hard in order to improve his offensive versatility.
Small Sample Size:
With only playing 13 minutes per game, and missing the first five games of the season with a right meniscus tear, it is difficult to judge the potential of Anigbogu. Since he played behind Thomas Welsh, Anigbogu didn’t see the floor all that often. This makes it challenging to determine his growth at the next level.
Next: Top 5 Safe Picks in the NBA Draft
Overview
Anigbogu is only 18 years of age, and he won’t be turning 19 until next October. He is extremely intriguing because he displays the abilities and potential to be an elite shot blocker and offensive rebounder. However, his lack of an offensive skill set and small sample size leaves him with many question marks. He does have solid footwork, he runs the floor well, and he is a threat to throw down lobs around the rim. With the center position being rather slim in this year’s draft, Anigbogu has been discussed as a mid first round draft selection, centered around his defensive upside.