Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Jack Cooley had a great college basketball career playing for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, but can he make it in the NBA?
Cooley averaged 13.1 points per game and 10.1 rebounds per game as a senior–both were career-highs. He was one of the best bigs in the Big East Conference all season long.
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The only really major issue is the fact that he plays at the center position and he is only 6’9”. So many centers seem to fail at the next level because of not being able to be a consistent scorer, among many other things. However, Cooley is way undersized and he may have to find a new position in the NBA.
I could see him as a decent power forward, but he would likely have to learn some new moves.
He shot 57.9 percent from the field this past season, which was down from his junior year by quite a bit. May I remind, it wasn’t like he was shooting the ball from that deep, considering that he only attempted two three-pointers all year. But hey, he did make one of those shots
Just like any player, I wish Cooley the best. However, who knows if he will make it at the next level? He likely won’t get drafted in the 2013 NBA Draft, but once again, who knows? All that it takes is for one team to want him for him to get drafted. More than likely, he will get signed after the draft, though.
Cooley is an interesting player, who was great in college. Until it happens, it will also be interesting to see how he fairs in the pros, whether that be the NBA, overseas or wherever.
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