Milwaukee Bucks NBA Draft Prospect Watch: Precious Achiuwa

MEMPHIS, TN - FEBRUARY 22: Precious Achiuwa #55 of the Memphis Tigers celebrates against the Houston Cougars during a game at FedExForum on February 22, 2020 in Memphis, Tennessee. Memphis defeated Houston 60-59. (Photo by Joe Murphy/Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TN - FEBRUARY 22: Precious Achiuwa #55 of the Memphis Tigers celebrates against the Houston Cougars during a game at FedExForum on February 22, 2020 in Memphis, Tennessee. Memphis defeated Houston 60-59. (Photo by Joe Murphy/Getty Images) /
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Precious Achiuwa, NBA Draft, Milwaukee Bucks
MEMPHIS, TN – DECEMBER 28: (Photo by Joe Murphy/Getty Images) /

Strengths

Achiuwa possesses all of the physical and athletic traits of a modern, versatile forward/big man.

Offensively, Achiuwa is an excellent finisher, whether it’s flying in the open floor or rolling to the basket in pick-and-roll situations. Achiuwa converted 64.1 percent of his scoring opportunities at the rim this season at Memphis, per Hoop-Math.

His activity and overall hustle helps him to extend possessions on the offensive glass where he can capitalize on second chances as well, though it’s important to note that Achiuwa is more explosive with a head of steam rather than at a standstill or among crowds of defenders.

Those same attributes lend to the tantalizing defensive potential he holds, which is boosted by the 7’2″ wingspan and nine-foot standing reach he possesses. Achiuwa’s shot blocking prowess clearly speaks for itself as he averaged 2.5 blocks per 40 minutes this season.

However, it’s the hope that Achiuwa displays when forced to switch on to small players and/or mismatches, where his mobility and athleticism truly shines, that projects him to be a truly versatile NBA defender. Time will tell whether he will reach that idealized vision of himself.