The San Antonio Spurs need some versatility at a couple different positions and this week’s prospect could give them just that. Freshman Villanova forward and center Omari Spellman was an absolute stud during his team’s run to another National Championship and that was thanks to his ability to play and guard multiple positions.
The 6-foot-10, 245-pound forward didn’t necessarily have “through the roof” kind of numbers, but he was a do-it-all forward for the Wildcats that allowed them to play with bigger teams and smaller teams alike. His ability to switch on picks and stay with smaller, quicker players was key and his strength to guard bigger players in the post was crucial as well.
Here are his stats:
- 10.9 PPG, 1.5 BPG, 8 RPG
- 47.6 FG%, 43.3 3P%, 70 FT%
- Per-40 stats:
- 15.4 PPG, 2.1 BPG, 11.4 RPG
- Per-40 stats:
- 122.8 ORtg, 96.7 DRtg
Spellman’s ability to guard guys ranging in various sizes, speeds and strengths was possibly his greatest asset. That’s one reason his defensive rating is so solid. While he was a good shot blocker, that is a bit of a concern at the next level since he isn’t super athletic and isn’t an explosive leaper.
However, Spellman’s tenacity and deceptive quickness have helped him become an excellent rebounder. He’s also gotten his body in proper shape to be an NBA player. There was one point he where was pushing 290 pounds before he got to campus and got himself down to an acceptable playing weight of 245. It’s that kind of work ethic on his body and in his game that will likely grab the Spurs’ attention.
Spellman is also an ideal stretch forward in today’s game as he can take bigger defenders off the dribble or take them outside and hit his shots. He’s also a good enough post-up player to get his shots on smaller and similarly-sized defenders. He’s also a decent playmaker, but will have to tighten up his handles at the next level.
The big man also has good hands, key for any big used in the pick-and-roll. Obviously, his shooting also makes him a pick-and-pop threat, which could open up the Spurs’ offense quite a bit. He can also score off the dribble and can score on the move. He might be a reach at the 18th pick, but the versatility and ability to contribute right away might be enough to take the chance on him.
