SERGEI MONYA

Position: SG Country: Russia Pro Club: CSKA Moscow Ht., Wt.: 6'8, 220 Selected by Portland Trail Blazers Round 1, pick 23 (23 overall)

BIO: Monya is one of the rising young stars of the Russian system. The 21-year-old has averaged just under 8.0 points per game in his two seasons with CSKA Moscow and played as a reserve for a club that reached the Euroleague Final Four. Monya's greatest asset is his versatility because he has the fundamental skills of a center in a small forward's physique. A decent shooter, Monya has plenty of question marks in terms of where he fits in an NBA setting. His talent cannot be questioned, but he must prove he has the toughness and tenacity to perform in the American style of play. ANALYSIS: Monya is considered by some observers as the most NBA-ready of the international prospects. He has good strength and size and can also play small forward. Monya needs to improve his ballhandling skills but has the ability to play both shooting guard and small forward. He is a likely mid first-round pick. POSITIVES: Monya is a thoroughbred in the open court. He loves filling the wing and scoring points in transition. He has above-average athleticism, a solid shooting touch and good size. Many believe Monya can be an excellent all-around contributor in the NBA. He was a key player this year on a CSKA team that featured four former NBA players and one other probable draft pick. NEGATIVES: To play 2-guard in the NBA, Monya needs to continue developing an already solid outside shot and improve his ballhandling and first step. He would be a quality NBA small forward, but his upside is in the backcourt, where he has the ability to create mismatches due to his size. PROJECTION: Key reserve, future starter