Trevor Ruszkowksi-USA Today Sports
In two seasons at Indiana, 7-foot center Cody Zeller threw down a fair share of rim-rattling dunks.
Despite his ability to play through contact and finish strong, would Zeller really be the best candidate that you’d choose if I told you someone broke the standing vertical leap mark at the 2013 NBA Draft Combine?
According to ESPN‘s Chad Ford, Zeller recorded a 35.5″ vertical leap at the combine, the highest ever recorded mark for a player who stands at 6-foot-9 or taller:
Cody Zeller’s standing vert of 35.5″ was highest ever recorded for player 6-9 or taller in last decade.#NBADraftCombine
— Chad Ford (@chadfordinsider) May 17, 2013
Well, there you have it. Dont’ call Zeller nonathletic.
At this point, Zeller is looking like a sure-fired top ten selection after declaring for the 2013 NBA Draft. Zeller averaged 16.5 points and 8.1 rebounds per game this past season for an Indiana squad that was eliminated in the Sweet 16 round of the NCAA Tournament.
Not only did Zeller impress in the vertical leap, but another one of his Hoosier teammate did, as well.
The only difference was this one was expected. Victor Oladipo, who stands at 6-foot-5, is known for his high-flying and leaping ability. He measured a 33″ standing vertical and a 42″ max, according to Ford:
Victor Oladipo with a 33″ standing vert and a 42″ max vert. Wow.
— Chad Ford (@chadfordinsider) May 17, 2013
Indiana head coach Tom Crean looks like he will have two former players called within the top ten portion of the NBA Draft. At least, that’s what can be expected at this point.
Follow Paul Seaver on Twitter: @PaulSeaverRS
