Zach Randolph

Zach Randolph (MEM) – “Z-Bo”

Profile:

Power Forward: 6’9, 260 lbs; 17th year, Michigan State

NBA Role: bruising power forward • Hybrid

Z-Bo is as real as it gets up front – undersized, power-finesse big w/ an immovable base – been tough to corral for 17 years; since State, Z-Bo’s been a gifted low-post & face up scorer – establishes himself early by grabbing, moving & even bowing his opponent from time to time…but it’s an elaborate set up – Randolph frustrates his matchup into making defensive mistakes like no other (once you’re at a disadvantage, a lil lefty hook or ‘strongman’ hook* is coming); can’t jump over a phone book, hasn’t ever needed athleticism to be effective – Randolph’s jab step, combined w/ a patient approach, produces nice results; remains a strong rebounder and inside presence (should teach a clinic on how to keep the ball high after securing an offensive rebound), though efficiency is starting to waver a bit; smart defender, though limited; thriving in a Sixth Man role

*the defender, J. Sullinger (TOR) in this example, usually can’t do anything to stop Randolph’s strong hook since it’s quick & he releases at its peak