CHRIS KAMAN

Position: C Class: Early Entry School: Central Mich. High School: Tri-Unity Christian (WY) Conference: MAC Ht., Wt.: 7'0, 255 Selected by Los Angeles Clippers Round 1, pick 6 (6 overall)

BIO: Kaman is an early entry candidate who emerged as one of the best college centers this past season at Central Michigan after being named to the Mid-American Conference first team and leading the Chippewas to the NCAA Tournament. Kaman averaged 22.4 points and 12.0 rebounds last season as a junior, one of just five players in the country to average 20 points and 10 rebounds. Kaman set a single-season record with 98 blocks for Central Michigan, the same school that produced former Phoenix Sun Dan Majerle. He led the nation with 25 double-doubles and collected 25 points and 10 rebounds in an NCAA Tournament loss to Duke and drew praise from Blue Devils coach Mike Krzyzewski. Kaman only averaged 11.8 points and 8.3 rebounds as a sophomore, demonstrating a quantum leap this past year. ANALYSIS: Kaman is quick to point out he's not a plodding big man. He's agile, runs well, is a better-than-average jumper and has an assortment of low-post moves. He can finish with either hand in the paint. He's also a shot-blocker, averaging 3.2 this past season. Needs to gain some upper-body strength, but knows it and is willing to work hard. Kaman has signed with an agent. POSITIVES: There are not many legitimate centers playing in the league anymore. How often does a 7-footer with good athleticism, strength, touch and footwork come around nowadays? Kaman is not only coordinated, he is better with his left hand and than he is with his right. He has a track record of not only scoring, but more importantly rebounding and blocking shots. Given his mobility, it is difficult to believe a team could go wrong in selecting Kaman. NEGATIVES: Kaman played in the MAC at Central Michigan, where there was virtually no competition. Moreover, he was far from dominant for two of his three seasons in that league. There is some justifiable cause for concern regarding Kaman in that sense, but there is very little to knock about his game. PROJECTION: Early First Round 2002 - 2003 Season Stats Photo: Jeff Gross/Getty Images