Player Profile: Golden State Warriors' Kelenna Azubuike

Coming from the D-League into the NBA, Kelenna Azubuike was a good fit for the Warriors, a team known for giving D-Leaguers a chance to prove themselves. Azubuike seems to be one of the better players to come out of the developmental organization.

He is one of the strongest guards in the league, much like his teammate Corey Maggette. The two are very similar players in many aspects. Both are very athletic, can attack the basket, and love to have the ball in their hands. Azubuike, however, is a better team player than Maggette.

Azubuike is one of the better three-point shooters in the league, as well. He was the best long-range man on the Warriors until Anthony Morrow joined the team. Azubuike shot 45 percent from beyond the arc, ranking fourth in the league.

Unlike many Warriors of past and present, Azubuike is a good free-throw shooter. He shot 80 percent from the line last season. He is also a strong rebounder, grabbing five per game.

Azubuike started a lot of games for the Warriors last season. At times, he tries to do too much, which leads to turnovers. When committed, Azubuike is a good defender. He has even held his own against Kobe Bryant a few times.

Special K is still 25 years old, which many people seem to forget. He is one of the quietest players in the league. He could have 30 points in a game and you wouldn't even know it.

Buike' is a key player for the Warriors and could be a great role player for a championship-caliber team.

2009-10 PROJECTED STATS

PPG: 15.2

RPG: 5.4

APG: 2.7

BPG: 0.8

SPG: 0.8

FG: 45 percent

FT: 82 percent

3PT: .432

MPG: 30.9

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