Name: Chimezie Metu
School: University of Southern California
Year: Junior
Height/Weight: 6’8, 210 lbs
Strengths:
Metu is a rangy athlete and an impactful specimen at his size. Aside from his sheer frame and length, he has solid mechanics in his game. He’s active, understands where to be on the floor, and he runs the floor with purpose. Metu shot 55 percent from the field in 2016-17.
An example of what can happen when Metu is unchecked when rim running:
The presence and activity of Metu can be game-changing on either end of the floor. Defensively he has the ability to create problems for opponents going to the rim with his quickness and size. Offensively, Metu is pretty confident in his ability to score, and he’s able to make things happen with or without the ball in his hands.
For one, he’s a consistent lob threat:
Playmaking might not necessarily be one of Metu’s elite strengths, especially off the dribble and on the move, but his court awareness is promising.
Weaknesses:
Metu could use some more sharpening to his offensive game, particularly shooting the mid-range jump shot. He seems comfortable and confident at times, but it’s not always warranted. While his shooting stroke looks legitimate, his touch could use improvement.
He’s not always able to establish his position physically down low. He’s more of a face-up big when he does catch it, but aggressively commanding the ball can become a more consistent strong point.
Future outlook:
For his frame and mobility, Metu has the physical makings of a pro. He still needs to show some more versatility going off the dribble and shooting the ball. At the next level, he’d be sized as a swing forward, and the rangy athletes aren’t as coveted as shooters and playmakers in the NBA.
But Metu shows promise and confidence in plenty of areas. He averaged just under 15 points and eight rebounds in 2016-17. His 2017 NBA Draft stock wasn’t hot enough to keep him from returning to school for his junior season. His 2018 stock has much more potential.
Potential Draft Position
Late 1st Round in 2018
