Precious Achiuwa, F, Memphis, 6’9, 225 pounds, 20 years old
The Memphis Tigers forward presents an elite scoring option down low, with an outstanding ability to rebound the ball, and protect the rim.
Precious Achiuwa is a great rim runner, likely the best in this year’s draft. He even can take a rebound coast to coast and make a play.
His measurables give him the most upside, with a wingspan of 7’2 and his 225-pound frame, there is a ton of potential for Achiuwa. He has the quickness that is required to defend wings while being able to handle the tasks of battling down low.
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His size and hustle make for one of the best rebounding prospects we have seen in a while. He has a great ability to box out opponents and seal them off allowing him to capitalize on the glass.
He cannot shoot and has no sign of improving from downtown, only shooting 30 percent on jump shots a year ago. That number barely jumped to 60 percent at the line.
It seems as though Achiuwa will never become a true modern-day big man, but he is not overpowering enough to dominate down low. He is caught in the middle of the new school and old school, like a 2000’s grunge band.
However, in 2020, the NBA has made it known you always need a good ‘tweener’. His frame allows him to set a hard screen, and his athletic finishes see him thrive in a pick-and-roll offense.