Syracuse Basketball: Fantasy NBA Draft featuring SU legends
By Ryan Lee
Third Pick, “Team Ryan”: Derrick Coleman
Need an anchor, why not the greatest man to play the pivot for the Orange. The lone number one overall pick in Syracuse history goes fifth in this draft but don’t think for a second that undersells the importance Coleman will bring to my squad.
The toughness alone will justify this pick but when you think the production he also gives, this is a no brainer. Shooting over 55 percent from the field each of his three seasons and averaging a double-double with rebounds from his sophomore year until graduation making Coleman the number one rebounder to ever put on the Syracuse uniform.
This gives my team a third straight elite scorer, all with the ability to get the ball inside and dominate the paint. Allows my team to get the rest as others go to work on the offensive end but the rebounding presence to keep possessions alive offensively and clean it up on defense.
Coleman is my first true post player on this team and he is more than capable of anchoring any squad, the Cuse has loads of talent to choose from so another player on the block might be necessary to give Coleman a hand. — Ryan.
Third Pick, “Team Paul”: Roosevelt Bouie
With DC coming off the board I couldn’t play around anymore I had to add some brutus beefcake to my roster down low. Who better than “Rosie” Roosevelt Bouie. Bouie is one of the only players that can square up with Derrick Coleman and win.
Not only does he have the freakish size (6-foot-11), but he has a knack for getting the ball in the bucket. A four-year starter who simply got better every year. Offensively he’s exactly what I’m looking for: can run the court, athletic, and a solid rebounder.
The only reason he didn’t have better-rebounding numbers (8.4 boards per game) is that he was surrounded by other star talents (Orr, Marty Byrnes, and Danny Schayes). If those guys weren’t there just imagine what else he could’ve accomplished. But that’s why Rosie is so good, he’s a team player.
On top of all of those talents he brings to the table he’s also an exceptional defensive stud. Rosie can protect the rim, block shots, and be my foundation for this game.–Paul.