NBA Draft 2011: Enes Kanter and the 5 Best International Big Men
International big men have made their impact on the NBA. Players like Dirk Nowitzki, Arvydas Sabonis and Zydrunas Ilgauskas have played long successful careers in the league.
A few teams will be looking for big men in this year's draft, and I have compiled the best international players in the group.
I have chosen from foreign power forwards and centers (according to Chad Ford).
Also, I have included where I believe each player will be drafted.
Check it out, and feel free to let me know what you think!
5. Lucas Nogueira, Brazil
1 of 5
Lucas Nogueira is a raw talent, but he could be a force in the future.
He can rebound the basketball, and his tremendous motor facilitates his ability to grab boards.
It would be ideal for a team to draft him as a project and to pair him with an offensively capable player.
That way, Nogueira can work on his low-post game and develop as an all-around player.
Projection: Boston Celtics (25th Pick)
4. Bismack Biyombo, Congo
2 of 5
Bismack Biyombo is somewhat of a mystery.
He has seemingly come out of nowhere, and a lot of teams love him. While there are some questions regarding his game (raw, unknown and strength), he is an athletic big man.
As the NBA becomes more and more athletic, big men that can move are becoming a hot commodity.
With Biyombo, an up-tempo team could find itself a rebounder and shot-blocker.
Projection: Phoenix Suns (13th Pick)
3. Donatas Motiejunas, Lithuania
3 of 5
Although most people have Donatas Motiejunas ranked lower than Bismack Biyombo, I have been hooked.
Admittedly, Dirk Nowitzki's play has made me a sucker for a wing-capable big man. Still, Motiejunas can hit a mid-range jumper, and his long-range shot is not completely terrible.
He is extremely thin, and he will have to bulk up if he wants to score in the NBA.
According to Chad Ford, Motiejunas has a high basketball IQ, and that shouldn't be overlooked. It will help him improve his game, and potentially, it could help him become a perennial All-Star.
Projection: Philadelphia 76ers (16th Pick)
2. Jonas Valanciunas, Lithuania
4 of 5
Although he is thin, Jonas Valanciunas has a presence around the rim.
He can block shots, rebound and finish with both hands.
He needs to develop his perimeter game and/or bulk up for play in the post. Once he does that, Valanciunas will be a premier center in the league.
Projection: Detroit Pistons (Eighth Pick)
1. Enes Kanter, Turkey
5 of 5
Although he was recruited to play for the University of Kentucky, Enes Kanter was ineligible, which is why he is eligible for this list.
He is a good finisher, and he seeks out contact around the rim.
As a hard-nosed player, Kanter will find himself a home in the league.
Don't be fooled into thinking he is exclusively a bruiser, for the man is extremely skilled and a great passer.
With all these talents, Kanter is one of the best overall prospects in the draft, and he is especially the best center available.
Projection: Cleveland Cavaliers (Fourth Pick)
