Certain types of player archetypes will always be coveted in basketball. Although these trends tend to fluctuate with the times, versatile forwards and rim-protecting big men are the most desirable. This is largely due to the pure fact that there are limited players with size… but even fewer with size and skill or size and the natural instincts required to anchor a defense at a high level. This is a massive reason why Williams Itumo should expect to see a visible uptick in his recruitment. The 6-foot-10 big man recently arrived at Winston-Salem Christian and has the tools to bring a completely new dynamic to the Lions.
It’s easy to envision what an interior piece with legitimate size and athleticism brings to the table, but there’s certainly more than meets the eye. So much of Itumo’s impact comes through his nonstop motor. It starts with his ability to control the defensive glass and create havoc or second-chance opportunities on offense. Itumo’s general activity forces opponents to constantly account for his presence on both ends of the floor. He consistently boxes out to secure position and grab rebounds while also regularly flying around for putback opportunities. Itumo will need to improve as a finisher, particularly on the offensive glass, but has the ability to score around the basket if necessary. His main source of offense comes from lobs and running the floor in transition.
That being said, Itumo is the type of player who really doesn’t need touches to impact a game. He has obvious appeal as a low-maintenance big man with a high motor, phenomenal rebounding instincts, and destructive defensive presence. Itumo blocks shots at a quality rate, but seemingly alters everything around the basket. His displays aggressiveness and toughness when flying around to create problems for opponents. Again, any offensive production he provides is simply a bonus. There are always Division I schools hunting for their next diamond in the rough (especially among big men), so coaches would be wise to start extending offers to Itumo.