Strengths: Arguably Turkeys top current prospect, Semih Erden offers a long and lean body frame with good athletic skills, long arms and good legs … He can run the floor very well for a guy his size and has good agility and quickness … Especially right handed, he also has penetration possibilities to go with decent hands and passing, as well as acceptable body balance … Even enjoying a good rythm on his outside shot (3 pt range) with a high release, hell have to work hard to make his percentages rise, become confident in himself and gain confidence from teammates to shoot from the perimeter … Considering his size, ballhandling and dribbling are surely acceptable, and his shotblocking as well due to a good leaping ability and solid timing.

Weaknesses: Most influenced by his often poor mentality are his defense and rebounding … Although in both aspects his instincts and awareness arent bad, his lack of intensity and concentration dont allow him to be a steady intimidating force in the middle … Does need some work on his timing when executing rotations and double teaming from help side … It would also be interesting to see him bulk up and gain more arm strength … Should also try to impose himself at the low post in half court offense, better developing his post moves.

Outlook: As far as Im concerned, the only person who can prevent Semih from being drafted is Semih Erden. The potential is undeniable, though at this point it appears he’s wasting a good amount of his talent. Lets hope hes conscious enough of that and can tap into his outstanding potential.

Scouted: 23/11/2006 & 01/11/2007 FC Barcelona-Fenerbahce lker Istanbul (both dates same match up)

Strengths: Has a great combination of size, speed, agilty, and footwork… Incredibly long body, with a great wingspan … Plays with tremendous energy, always plays at high level of intensity … Runs the floor well, and is well suited for an up tempo game … Has the type of toughness you want in an inside player … Does not back down from anyone, as witnessed when he held his own facing Tim Duncan which was huge cosidering he was barely 18 at the time …

Weaknesses: He’s still very young and his game is very raw… Needs time to gain experience and develop better basketball skills … Must get stronger, work on his offensive game … Would greatly benefit to add a couple of reliable post moves, and some range to his shot … He has very good potential but for now he remains a project, but a great prospect nonetheless …