Gary A. Vasquez-USA Today Sports
Name: Dewayne Dedmon
Age: 23
Height: 7-foot
Position: Center
School/Country: USC
Latest Stats: 6.7 ppg, 7.0 rpg, 2.1 bpg, 1.1 spg
Dewayne Dedmon‘s decision to declare for the 2013 NBA Draft was a bit puzzling to some — mainly because he still had one more year of eligibility left. Dedmon averaged only 6.7 points and 7.0 rebounds per game this past season and at this point, he would still be considered a project 7-footer. However, USC is bringing in a new head coach and Dedmon will be turning 24 years old in August, so why not?
Dedmon is a big body who came to USC after one season at the junior college level. Dedmon was — for lack a better phrase — over-hyped by former Trojans’ head coach Kevin O’Neill. Dedmon was given first round praise from O’Neill, but that is not how things are going to pan out for the USC center. Dedham is a force inside, a legitimate 7-footer and an improving defensive player and shot blocker. However, Dedmon has no guarantees to even hear his name called on draft night.
Strengths: Dedmon has size that you cannot teach. A true 7-footer, Dedmon can rebound and defend particularly well. Dedmon is an improving shot blocker having swatted 47 more shots in 2012-13 than he did the season before, so you know he can hold his own on that end of the floor.
Weaknesses: Dedmon is still raw on the offensive end and heading into the NBA Draft at the end of 23, going on 24, it’s a major red flag for NBA scouts. Dedmon needs to continuing improving his offensive arsenal if he has any hopes of making an NBA roster prior to the 2013-14 season.
Draft Projection: Undrafted
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