Given the high amount of volatility in college recruiting, specifically in today’s transfer-dominated world, it’s becoming more and more common to see high-level players not get the attention they deserve from college programs. This is perhaps the most evident (specifically in the triangle area) when taking a deeper look into Quasim Oden’s situation. The 6’1″ guard out of GRACE Christian Raleigh is averaging 18.8p, 4.1r, 3.8a, & 2s per game while leading the Eagles to a 21-7 record and a CCC regular season title, which they’ve clinched with a game in hand. Oftentimes, players who fall through the cracks in recruiting are late bloomers or struggle academically. What makes Oden’s situation so puzzling is that he doesn’t fit either bill. He’s been a statewide name since early in his high school career and currently has a 3.3 GPA. Oden is an incredibly tough and physical guard who can play on or off the ball. He guards at a very high level, rebounds well for his position, and is virtually impossible to stop when getting downhill. He’s underrated as a playmaker as he has good vision, doesn’t force action, and makes the right play with regularity.
What has been said:
“In reality, it feels like Oden is one of the more overlooked prospects among college coaches. He’s smart, heady, and incredibly tough. Oden clearly knows how to set the tone as a rugged defender with the necessary quickness, physicality, and sheer instincts to cause constant problems for opponents. He displays a high motor and quality feel for the game on both ends of the floor. Oden is excellent at getting downhill in the open floor, but also has no issue breaking down opponents and touching the paint at a high volume in half-court situations. He’s a useful shooting threat with craftiness as a finisher and playmaker. Oden is the type of player who stands out as a difference-maker in basically every type of setting or context.”
“When you talk about Oden’s game, one thing that quickly stands out about his game is how physical he is with the ball in his hands. He is willing and strong enough to get downhill and attack, scoring at the rim consistently and embracing contact in the paint. Oden excels out in the open floor and attacking the defense, especially out in transition but also does a great job in creating off the bounce and setting up open teammates for shots. Oden is willing to do the dirty work on the court and is a proven leader, qualities that should only help and carry him at the next level.”
