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Kamari Murphy
Junior F 6'8 220 Brooklyn, NY (Lincoln H.S. - Oklahoma State)
2014-15 Stats: (sat out NCAA transfer rules) In 2013-14 with OSU averaged 6.1 ppg, 6.3 rpg and shot 54% from the floor.
Scouting Report:
- Already being lauded by Coach L and his teammates for his defensive prowess (can guard all 5 positions on the floor) and unselfish nature.
- Likely the second best athlete on the team behind Sheldon McClellan.
- An accomplished and proven force on the glass from his days in the Big XII.
- Developing offensive game. Larranaga has already praised his ability to drive to the hoop. Shooting/touch remain a work in progress.
- Fills the most important need on the team. Is a classic defense/rebounding first 4.
(just a taste)
Summary: Every great team needs a guy like Murphy to bring it all together. He is the kind of player who can potentially score in double figures some nights, with out a single play being called for him. More importantly though, his presence on the glass will create more possessions on offense, and protect Tonye Jekiri from having to do too much on defense. Little things, like his potential to set screens up top, help defense, and the energy he could bring to the floor, are all qualities that could turn a very good UM team into a great one in 2015-16. Think back to 2012-13 and the role Julian Gamble filled for that squad. Murphy is not quite as tall as Gamble, but an even better athlete and a more versatile defender. The Brooklyn native is a very key cog the success of the program the next two seasons. He should be fun to watch as well.