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Countdown Part 8

Halldan1

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Moderator
Jan 1, 2003
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#6 Braeden Anderson

10394800.jpeg


6-8 235 Position PF/C


It's been a well traveled road for Anderson. First committing to DePaul in 2010, then Kansas in 2011 before being deemed ineligible and then settling in at Fresno State for two years.

Now Anderson is a Pirate after having issues with his coach at Fresno.

Anderson who told the Trove in his interview that he did not get along with the Fresno State staff, particularly the head coach put up very poor stats in his limited time in California. Noting that he didn't see the court as much as he wanted because it was clear that after his sophomore year he was leaving the school.


Strengths:
This strong, well-built power forward is an intriguing player who has loads of untapped potential. As a young player he was considered an inside/outside guy who can step out to make the 15-18' jump shot. Anderson has good hands that allow him to catch and finish balls around the rim. Braeden has all the tools to be a monster on the glass, but does not pursue the ball like say his SHU teammate Mike Nzei. But that said his upside is undeniable.

Weaknesses:
Anderson needs to learn how to better utilize his physical gifts as he has the tools to be an outstanding defensive player when motivated. On offense he sometimes falls in love with his short jumper instead of becoming a pick-and-roll option, a tact that is perfectly suited for his game. Anderson must also concentrate more on his skill set instead of strictly relying on his God given abilities. He's too talented to be putting up the meager stats that he as to date in college. He has the ability to be a major force on D, and to tally more points and rebounds.

Bottom Line:
Anderson has the size and athleticism that says high major power forward, but he has some work still to do. Playing with and against better competition can only help the Canadian import improve. Anderson has only scratched the surface of what he can do on the court. But he can be frustrating as he doesn't always 'bring it'.


This coming year:

Anyone who says with certainty that they have the answer to this question is probably stretching the truth. Clearly SHU signing Anderson is a roll of the dice. The talent is there. But will the results follow?

Sight unseen it's very difficult for me to project what Anderson will mean to the Hall. I have been told he will get the first chance to be our starting 4. His keeping that position is totally up to him.

In our interview it was clear that Braeden doesn't lack for confidence. He says all the right things. But now he has to back that up where it counts, on the court.

I listed Anderson number 6 in my ranking but in truth that is nothing more than a guess. He more than any other player on the roster has peaked my curiosity. Players who underperformed as regards their talent are a dime a dozen. SHU fans can only hope that this young man will be an exception. Maybe playing with and against high motor players like Delgado, Nzei and Sanogo will bring out the upside in this 6-8 physically talented big man. Pirate fans can only hope so.
 
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