It does not matter how accomplished of a basketball coach you are, you cannot teach 6'10' with a 7'2' wing span…That is something you are born with. 2019 prospect David Elien was born with an incredible basketball frame as these are his dimensions.
He is a natural run and jump athlete who possesses natural timing on the defensive end. Everything about Elien, and his game, fits exactly with the direction modern basketball is heading. He has incredible length, great timing and he is able to move his feet in space. Yes he is a potential high level defensive presence.
Two things that intrigue even more about Elien is that he is a high academic student, his core GPA is almost 4.0 and he has only been playing basketball for a couple of years. He picks up on things very quickly, he works his tail off wanting to be good and he is like clay right now with the ability to mold him moving forward.
Our first viewing of Elien came during Session 2 of the NC Phenom 150 exposure camp. We walked away incredibly impressed as we were not sure what to expect, 'Eilen Jr. is very long and has natural athleticism and timing. He showed the ability to knock down the 18 foot jump shot consistently. Eilen Jr. is new to the game and still learning, however he is showing that he has nice instincts. Eilen Jr's camp coach stated, 'David is a solid big who can move and finish at the rim. He is athletic and works hard defensively. There is a lot of upside here.'
Throughout his showings with us, Elien has not only showed marked improvement each time out, but he has shown a toughness to go along with his developed skill set. He has shown good hands. He has shown the ability to consistently beat his man down the floor. He has shown the ability to face up out to 18 feet and also developing footwork on the block. He has battled and he has show fluid athleticism.
Everything about Elien screams Division 1, well except his current recruitment. However, at 6'10' with a 7'2' wing span having toughness and natural explosion to go with a GPA close to 4.0, that is someone who should explode in July with numerous Division 1 offers coming his way.
See him first at Phenom's Summer Havoc Series from July 11-15 in Spartanburg, SC. This is one that you will want to see early so you can have a chance.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch'v=4bWvuJ_pugI]
