Noel drawing comparisons to last year’s No.1 pick Anthony Davis.
Kentucky’s Nerlens Noel has emerged as a bright prospect this year, with many tipping him for the No.1 pick in the 2013 NBA draft.
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Shooting almost 60% from the floor, averaging nine boards and 6.2 blocks per game, it’s his defensive game that has experts and scouts comparing him to New Orleans Hornets rookie Davis.
Standing at 6’11”, the Kentucky center is similarly playing under the stewardship of coach John Calipari and has been praised for his work at both ends of the court.
However, for all his attributes and skills there are still two glaring weaknesses. Noel has struggled from the free-throw line, shooting an average of just 51%.
Secondly, there have been questions marks over his frame and whether he has the necessary bulk to endure the big hits he will likely receive when he steps up to the big league.
Reportedly the first one to enter the gym and the last to leave, Noel is keen to develop those areas of his game, with his defensive capabilities making him stand out from the rest.
Noel is ranked among the top 25 in blocks and steals, and is currently chasing down the NCAA record set by Davis for blocks, which stands at 186.
As of last week Noel had 102, and at an average of 6.2, he may well break that record depending on how far he and his Kentucky team-mates can go. Remember the name, Noel may well be making a splash on NBA courts next season.
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