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The other day I was reading Grantland's amazing breakdown of this years pre-season college basketball all americans. The breakdown included heavy doses of draft analysis and a youtube video for each player, both of which were right up my alley. Although the list featured a number of my favorites, the guy I came away loving was Jarred Sullinger. In high school, and last year, I was skeptical of Sullinger. His nickname "big smooth" and his hot and cold motor worried me immensely. After looking at some of his highlights, however, I fell in love with his ability to get deep post position, seal his man, drop step, and finish through contact below the rim. Watching Sullinger got me thinking about other players like him; thick, not-jumpy, amazing hands, solid footwork, layup machines. These american heros may not get the hype, they may never defend a pick and role like KG, or catch an alley like Tyson Chandler, but what they do accomplish is just as important. Lets take a look at some of the best around at all levels.
The Gold Standard: Wes Unseld Measurements: 6'7, 250 Notable Accomplishment: Career average of 14 rebounds per game (9 defensive) Earthbound Superpower: Outlet passing, defensive rebounding
Any discussion of an earthbound player begins with Wes. He was a bruising presence who dominated the glass. He lead an unspectacular Bullets team to a championship while also being named to five all-star games. Unseld's biggest contribution to the game was his uncanny ability to throw full court outlet passes from his chest. Take that Kevin Love!
