The WCC Player of the Year brings elite interior physicality and high-efficiency scoring to Brooklyn’s radar as a potential second-round steal to bolster the rebuilding frontcourt.
Outside of the No. 6 overall pick, the Brooklyn Nets have two second-rounders to look to add to a young, rebuilding roster.
At NetsRoundtable, we have recently highlighted many of these late-round talents, including Houston's Milos Uzan and Arizona big man Tobe Awaka.
In this profile, I will showcase Gonzaga center Graham Ike, who is coming off his second-straight dominant season with the Bulldogs.
Interior Presence
Ike did it all for Gonzaga last season, averaging a team-high 19.9 points and 8.0 rebounds per game.
The fifth-year senior dominated the WCC, posting multiple 30-point showings, winning the conference's Player of the Year award for the second-straight season.
According to Gonzaga Athletics, Ike finished first in the WCC in scoring (19.9), second in rebounding (8.0), and first in field goal percentage (.563).
In conference play, Ike elevated even further, once again leading the WCC in scoring (21.9) and field goal percentage (.613) and ranking second in rebounds.
Despite falling in the second round of March Madness, Ike terrorized Texas on the inside, scoring a game-high 25 points.
Consistent Effort
Ike never averaged less than 11.2 points per game, finishing his 3-year career in Washington with 1,797 points (8th in program history).
The 6-foot-9 big man plays within himself, looking for high-efficiency shots on the inside, and using his 250-pound frame to dislodge defenders on the block.
Ike plays with an innate level of physicality, leading to easy second-chance attempts on the offensive glass.
Amidst an 11-game win streak midway through the season, Ike scored 25 or more in five occasions, including multiple 30+ point performances.
Against St. Mary's, Ike knocked down three triples en route to a 30-point showing, leading the Bulldogs to an eight point victory.
Areas For Improvement
Ike made nearly one 3-pointer per game last season, showing much more confidence in lining up deep balls.
While his 33.8-percent is not ideal, Ike's jump shot mechanics look smooth, and he won't be required to shoot many threes at the next level.
Defensively, Ike needs to become more of a threat as a rim protector, as he never averaged more than 0.8 blocks per game throughout college.
Draft Projection
Ike is seen as a late-second round prospect with heightened experience due to his five-year college stay.
On ESPN's big board, Ike is listed as the No. 65 overall prospect.
Are Nets a Fit?
Ike's scoring ability would be a big boost to Brooklyn's front court, especially if the Nets deal Nic Claxton.
He would fit as a bench big man who can come in and provide solid, physical minutes with high-efficiency shot selection.
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