Ht/Wt: 6-8 / 233 lbs
Position: PF
Team: Texas
Class: Freshman

2011 Draft Profile - Tristan Thompson

Thompson stepped in and became a defensive ace from day 1 in the big 12. As a top recruit with an all around game many expected Tristan to be a NBA prospect after year 1, but a bit surprising to see his dominance in the painted area of one of the most physical conferences in America. At 6ft8 235lbs, he has a good combination of length and strength with exceptional timing he was one of the nation’s best shot blockers and one of the conferences top rebounders. Along with being a presence down low Thompson runs the floor and handles the ball well, is a solid finisher with either hand and makes a lot of hustle plays. Thompson makes his team a lot better without having to demand a lot of touches. He comes with a good makeup, high energy l, unselfish and fiery. At just 20yrs old he should still be able to fill out his long frame and have the ideal size of a PF.

It doesn’t look like Tristan has the game to play minutes at SF like many thought, he has limited range and offensive tools. His 48% from the line is concerning. Sub par explosiveness offensively by NBA standards. Needs to work on his jump shot and consistency on the offensive end.

Another defensive minded prospect in this years draft. The book is still out if he is a developing offensive prospect or if what you see is what you’ll get. Staying another year would have helped him develop more offensively and get his upper body more ready to bang in the NBA. Looks like a low maintenance, defensive minded post player with some offensive upside.

NBA comparison- Amir Johnson- Al Horford
Player profile submitted by: Tom Patterson

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