NextGen EuroLeague Munich: African Players Recap
Post-event recaps, evaluations, and film for performances of notable players with African backgrounds.
In a competition that generally lacked clear-cut NBA talent, this leg of the Adidas NextGen EuroLeague left many evaluators craving a higher level of play. While there were some bright spots, teams and players alike fell short of what many were expecting.
That said, there were good moments, especially among younger generations, for several players. Many showed flashes of what idealized versions of themselves could be. Find out which players with African backgrounds fit that mould, and which have more to prove throughout this season below.
Dorian Rinaldo Komlan | NGT Munich (CSP Limoges Espoirs)
6’9” | F | 2007 | France/Togo
10 PPG, 3 RPG, 0.8 APG, 16 MPG
Champion of this tournament, Rinaldo Komlan announced himself to the world in a loud way, dunking everything around the basket and showing guard skills and dexterity uncommon at this age and size. He displayed playmaking, ball handling, and shooting flashes. The long and lanky wing has room to grow into an NBA-sized frame and versatility to be a mismatch at various levels.
Despite his high ceiling, he has a lot to work on before he can be considered a top-shelf prospect. Rinaldo Komlan needs to work on his motor to consistently produce throughout the entirety of a tournament and season without tapering off. Physical strength should also be a point of emphasis, which could help him impact the game as much defensively as he does on offense.
Sidi Gueye | Real Madrid
6’9” | PF/C | 2007 | Senegal
7.8 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 1 APG, 3.5 Stocks Per Game
Gueye entered the tournament ambitious, attempting to expand his game against this competition. He tried more off the dribble attacks and shot more threes than usual, but neither of these skills translated effectively. He fell back on what he’s historically done best: block shots and finish in the paint. When comfortable, he operated as a hub at times and was always a threat when protecting the rim due to his wingspan and eternal motor.
Gueye should work on shooting consistency and continue to get playmaking reps as a hub, especially with current trends in the professional game. He has shown flashes of both, but will reassure scouts if he can be relied upon in those areas.
Gildas Giménez | Real Madrid
6’6” | SF | 2007 | Spain/Burkina Faso
10 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 1.3 APG, 1.3 SPG