Miami Basketball Player Profile: Joe Thomas

Joe Thomas

Senior (Graduate) - F - 6'7 245 - Miami, Fl (transfer from Niagra)

Comes to UM after 3 seasons at Niagra.

Former H.S. teammate of 'Canes PG Angel Rodriguez (Krop H.S.).

Averaged 3.4 points and 2.7 rebounds last year, and also led the Purple Eagles in blocks.

"Joe joins us at the perfect time. We needed a front court player with experience and a fifth-year senior was exactly what my staff and I hoped for. He provides us with some size and strength and rebounding toughness." - UM Head Coach Jim Larranaga

Summary: While not as high profile as touted transfers Angel Rodriguez or Sheldon McClellan, Thomas could still play an important role on next season's team. He's never going to look to score (as evidenced by the 3 shots total he took in 4 games this summer in Spain), but you can not underestimate the value of a good screener and a guy who loves to defend and rebound. With Miami featuring just 3 other true front court players (Tonye Jekiri, Ivan Cruz Uceda, and Omar Sherman) Thomas may be called upon for big minutes against some of the more powerful front courts in the ACC, especially with aforementioned Uceda out for the team's 1st 16 games. He's built like an NFL Defensive End, but will he be able to overcome his lack of height?  It will be interesting to see how Coach L and staff use him, but the hope is that he brings an element of toughness that helps the 'Canes get to the next level.

Stay tuned for more player profiles as we count down to tip off.