In this year’s NBA draft, there were few if any certainties. One player who I think will undoubtedly become a solid contributor at the next level is Kenneth Faried. The pride of Morehead State was selected by the Denver Nuggets with the 22nd overall pick.
Faried’s name won’t ring a bell in the minds of casual fans, but his game brings up memories of Dennis Rodman and Ben Wallace. He broke the NCAA’s modern era (after 1973 because freshman were allowed to play) rebounding record (1,673) previously held by Tim Duncan.
Standing 6-7, and lithe 225-pounds, Faried will certainly face a challenge matching up against stronger, taller and bigger opponents. Yet, it’s his unyielding energy and child-like passion for the game that will allow him to carve out a niche. Think of the Bulls’ Joakim Noah as a player Faried will resemble most in the league.
Despite no summer leagues due to the NBA lockout, Faried is enjoying some classic summer hoops at the Drew Pro-Am League in Southern California. Kevin Durant, James Harden and Michael Beasley are among the players who recently showed off their pro game alongside the top high school and college talent.
If they didn’t know before, Cali hoops lovers will remember the name Kenneth Faried now. He has amazed with his athleticism and even showing a nice little floor game. Enjoy just a snippet of what you can look forward to whenever the NBA starts work again.
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