Emeka Okafor

Vital Info
Height: 6'10"
Weight: 252 lbs.
Position: Center/Power Forward
Born: 9/28/1982
College: Connecticut
Drafted: 2004 - 1st Round, 2nd Overall

Player Type: Rugged frontcourt defender/rebounder
Strengths: Okafor is an outstanding inside defender despite his lack of a typical center's height. He excels at shot-blocking, especially in help situations, and is very smart in terms of executing team defensive concepts. His basketball IQ is high -- he always seems to be in the right place at the right time defensively. This also extends to the glass, where he's a force at both ends because of smarts and terrific timing. And he does all of this while keeping his fouls low (he fouled out only 3 times all year).
Weaknesses: Okafor will never be mistaken for an offensive-minded post player. His footwork is lacking, he can't create high-percentage post-up opportunities, and he most certainly can't step out and knock down jump shots. Basically, his only offensive value comes when he scores off of putbacks and other garbage chances around the basket. Of course, that's a small price to pay if you're Charlotte (or whoever he plays for next season), given Okafor's great defense and rebounding.
Favorite shot: Putback after an offensive rebound.