Mitchell Robinson, Chalmete HS, C, Class of 2017, Committed to Western Kentucky, 19.0Strengths-Great combination of height, length, reach and athleticism for a center prospect. Measured 7'0 in shoes, with a 7'3 ½ wingspan and a 9'2 standing reach.
-Not bulky or strong right now, but has wide shoulders that look like they can add weight over time. Lower body isn't bad either
-Moves extremely well. Fluid. Terrific rim-runner. Quick off his feet. Pogo stick type leaper. Gets up for lob finishes with ease. Great potential as a finisher off two feet. Covers ground exceptionally well
-Very good hands
-Has a budding skill-level that can be harnessed into something productive over time. Shooting stroke looks decent. Ball comes out of hand cleanly with nice rotation. Throws in mid-range and turnaround jumpers. Shows flashes of finishing with both hands.
-Has a bit of a handle and some footwork. Doesn't really know what he's doing but has some skill
-Averaged 20 rebounds per-40 minutes in the EYBL, best in the competition's history. 8 offensive rebounds per-40 also #1 in EYBL history.
-Quick off his feet as a shot blocker. Led the EYBL in both blocks per-game and per-40. Second best shot-blocker in EYBL history after
Nerlens Noel.
-Length and ability to cover ground gives him tremendous potential as a pick and roll defender
-Average feel isn't that much of a detriment considering his expected role. Doesn't overthink things. Just goes out and makes plays
Weaknesses-Has high hips and a bit of an awkward frame. Has a ways to go to maximize his frame
-Skill-level is a work in progress in five on five settings. Shows flashes in practice but is a ways away from translating that to game competition.
-Doesn't really know how to play. Awareness, fundamentals, IQ all have a long ways to go.
-Gets lost off the ball defensively. Gives up deep post position without resistance. Gets overpowered by stronger players on a regular basis.
-Foul prone. Will likely have some trouble staying on the court early on until he learns how to play without fouling
-Gets rebounds off his tools, doesn't really box out.
-Doesn't always appear to have the most serious approach. Laid-back demeanor
-A year old for his class
Outlook Robinson made a much stronger impression on us over the course of the week in New York, including practices, scrimmages and the game, than he did last summer at the USA Basketball Training Camp. He was fabulous in the game, running the floor exceptionally well and catching alleyoop after alleyoop in highlight reel fashion, and also showed serious sparks of potential in the highly competitive practice session. Robinson has elite physical tools and ticks quite a few boxes as a modern day NBA center, even if he's obviously a late bloomer with plenty of things he'll need to keep improving.
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