Anthony Davis: Kentucky Superstar Will Be an Immediate Leader in NBA

It took Anthony Davis one year to complete what some college athletes don't do in three or four tries. He was recognized as his sport's best player, and his team took home the ultimate trophy.

Throughout Kentucky's wildly successful season, Davis handled himself with integrity. He played with focus well beyond his years, and he did all the little things necessary to lead an elite team.

Barring an incredible shock, Davis will be the New Orleans Hornets' No. 1 overall selection in the 2012 NBA Draft.

Not only will the Hornets take the draft's best player, but they will draft a high-character player. He will make an impact in their locker room right away.

Davis was a point guard at one point in high school. He has adapted his game completely, and you can't do something like that without a tremendous work ethic.

His offensive game is still far from a finished product.

He has a developing face-up game. He is dangerous within 15 feet, but he can extend himself to the three-point arc if he has too.

With his back to the basket, Davis uses his freaky length to shoot over defenders. He has a soft touch around the basket, and he can shoot with either hand.

But he must get stronger, or he will be pushed around inside. That aspect of his game will likely improve after a few months on an NBA workout plan.

Defensively, Davis doesn't need much explanation. His shot-blocking is well known, and the recognition is well deserved. His instincts and timing are unparalleled for a player his age.

Davis' leadership goes into the skills he brings to the court and the presence he brings to the locker room. He knows his strengths, plays to them and doesn't do anything to hurt his team.

A star of his stature could be selfish, and most people wouldn't say anything about it. But Davis isn't. He makes the entire team better with his play on the court.

The scrutiny he faces makes him seem larger than life at times. That could have an impact on his teammates, but Davis handles things so modestly that it's hard to tell that he's touted.

He has one goal, and that's winning. He knows that an unhappy team doesn't make a successful team.

Davis shows the poise and demeanor of a player 10 years his elder. He will provide immediate stability in the NBA because of his winning experience and his ability to lead by example at all times.

In terms of individual accolades, you can expect Davis to earn many All-Defensive team honors and a handful of All-Star appearances.

But he will also have values you can't see on paper.

His presence alone puts a franchise on the map, but his leadership steers their ship in the right direction.