One of the most efficient scorers in college basketball has announced his decision to enter the 2019 NBA Draft: Florida State’s Mfiondu Kabengele.
The ACC’s Sixth Man of the Year in 2019, Kabengele averaged 13.2 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game — in under 22 minutes per game. While on the floor, though, Kabengele was constantly in motion — 27.5 percent usage rate and 2.8 blocks per 40 minutes.
He plans to sign with an agent; however, due to new NCAA rules, he could still — potentially — return for his junior season.
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A monster on the offensive glass (11.5 percent offensive rebound rate), Kabengele emerged as an efficient low-block scorer who could post-up and finish at the rim (44 dunks, 65 FG%). Kabengele shot 55 percent on 2-point attempts during conference play.
He was instrumental for Florida State this season — the winningest season in program history (29-8). For the most part, Kabengele platooned at the center position with 7-foot-4 Christ Koumadje this season. This leaves a big hole — almost literally — in Florida State’s rotation.
However, Leonard Hamilton stays amazingly on brand year after year; FSU as two 7-foot signees in its 2019 recruiting class.
Going Forward
Kabengele looks like the modern day reserve center in the NBA — capable of working as the fulcrum for a second unit offense: post-ups, a little floor spacing (career 37.4 3P%) and a little pick-and-roll, too. Kabengele (180 FTA) has the ability to generate and play through contact, too.
Offense must be Kabengele’s selling point as a prospect, though. While he blocks plenty of shots (8.8 percent block rate), there’s plenty of work to be done on that end of the floor for the 6-foot-10 center.