Onyeka Okongwu Will Make A Run At Rookie of the Year

In one season at USC, Onyeka Okongwu averaged 16.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.7 blocks and shot 61.6% from the floor. In his rookie season, if Okongwu averages more than 12 points, 6 rebounds, is an avid shot-blocker and can shoot higher than 50% from the floor, he will definitely be in the conversation for Rookie of the Year. 

Over the last three years, the Rookie of the Year award has gone to the best all-around rookie, not just the one with the most points per game or high-motor. Okongwu has the abilities to be a great all-around big man at the NBA level and his defense is where he will make his case for Rookie of the Year.

Okongwu was one of the best shot-blockers in the country last year at USC and could continue to find success as a great defensive player in the NBA. He has fantastic footwork for a big man and positions himself perfectly in the paint to contest shots instead of fouling. Given his play on both ends of the court, he could make a case for Rookie of the Year if he can continue to be an avid shot-blocker at the next level.

Given the fact that the Hawks used the 6th overall pick in this past year’s draft to take Onyeka Okongwu, he will likely assume the back-up center position behind Clint Capela and could even see minutes behind John Collins at power-forward. His versatility to play in the backcourt will go a long way in the Atlanta Hawks success this year and he will easily have one of the better rookie seasons this year.