Rick Barnes has put on a display in this NBA Draft with his player development. Tennessee has already had two draft picks, with wing Nate Ament and guard Ja’Kobi Gillespie both selected. Center Felix Okpara is the third Vol off the board, going No. 46 overall to the Orlando Magic, but was traded to Wasington.
The Bucks pick comes with draft grades that are underrating Nate Ament’s upside
Adding Okpara now gives Washington another high-level rim protector, and a frontcourt trio of Sarr, Anthony Davis, and Okpara can provide serious interior defense and rebounding.
What does Felix Okpara bring to the NBA?
Okpara is one of the best shot blockers in this NBA Draft class and is a defensive anchor who can hold his own in the paint. He isn’t the biggest or strongest player, but he plays bigger than his size and has good length. He does the little things that don’t always show up in the box score, like diving for loose balls, setting screens, boxing out, and clearing space in the lane.
What Magic fans will notice most about Okpara is that while he isn’t an offensive star, he can catch any lob thrown his way and be an asset in the pick-and-roll game. Ultimately, what hurts him is that he isn’t a post scorer and can’t create for himself, but he is capable of providing a defensive wall in the paint for a team that needs help on its second unit.
Okpara will be a fan favorite in Washington
In Tennessee, Okpara made headlines for what he did on the court. He was never the flashiest player or the best player, but he always showed up in every moment and did all the things that contribute to winning. Last season, he averaged 8.0 points and 6.3 rebounds, but he was one of Tennessee’s most important players. He protected the rim, blocking 1.5 shots per game, and shot almost 60% from the field.
Okpara was an integral part of Tennessee’s Elite Eight run and hopefully he can continue his success in the NBA.
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