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Akok is a very unique player for us. We have never had a shotblocking, 3 point shooting big. The only one that comes close in comparison is Charlie V but that was a different era and Charlie only average one 3point attempt per game. Akok should probably triple that. So what do you expect? Here's a few questions:
1. Will he start?
I think Yes
2. Will Hurley run plays for him in the half court?
Probably for jump shots but there are so many unknown variables here. Does he have any type of post game? Can he take anyone off the dribble? Can he pass if he draws attention? He has a really pretty stroke but I don't expect him to shoot a great percentage overall from the outside in the first half of the season just because of the up and downs of a young player getting accustomed to the D1 level.
3. How will he be on defense?
We know Akok is athletic, has very good length and timing on blocking shots. We don't know if we will get pushed around and we also don't know if he will be able to avoid foul trouble. I think he will be a little better than expected here simply because I think he is stronger than is generally assumed here, despite the very skinny legs. Carlton averaged 2 blocks per game last year. If Akok can average around 2 per game this year, that will be huge for UConn. We will need him to be a strong rebounder as well.
4. What will his stats be?
Again, just a guess and this is under the assumption that he is a starter I predict he averages 8ppg, 5 rebounds and 2 blocks. These are very similar numbers to what Carlton averaged this season, though they are completely different players. I expect him to have a couple breakout games with 20 points but to also be held to 2 or 3 points in some games.
5. How long will he be around?
I've heard the plan and the goal for both Akok and UConn is 2 seasons and then the NBA. But anything can happen.
1. Will he start?
I think Yes
2. Will Hurley run plays for him in the half court?
Probably for jump shots but there are so many unknown variables here. Does he have any type of post game? Can he take anyone off the dribble? Can he pass if he draws attention? He has a really pretty stroke but I don't expect him to shoot a great percentage overall from the outside in the first half of the season just because of the up and downs of a young player getting accustomed to the D1 level.
3. How will he be on defense?
We know Akok is athletic, has very good length and timing on blocking shots. We don't know if we will get pushed around and we also don't know if he will be able to avoid foul trouble. I think he will be a little better than expected here simply because I think he is stronger than is generally assumed here, despite the very skinny legs. Carlton averaged 2 blocks per game last year. If Akok can average around 2 per game this year, that will be huge for UConn. We will need him to be a strong rebounder as well.
4. What will his stats be?
Again, just a guess and this is under the assumption that he is a starter I predict he averages 8ppg, 5 rebounds and 2 blocks. These are very similar numbers to what Carlton averaged this season, though they are completely different players. I expect him to have a couple breakout games with 20 points but to also be held to 2 or 3 points in some games.
5. How long will he be around?
I've heard the plan and the goal for both Akok and UConn is 2 seasons and then the NBA. But anything can happen.