I watched most of the SIU - Cal Baptist game (full game is on Youtube:
). Some thoughts on Domask:
- You don't watch him and think "length"; almost feels like he's only 6'4". However, that could just be because he plays with a low center of gravity. Kid has ankles like a fullback. And the analyst (I think it was Tim Doyle
) noted that he stood next to Domask and believes he is every bit of 6'6". I remember when his coach Brian Mullins played in the tournament back in the late 2000s, Jay Bilas quipped that "SIU gets off the bus and you think your'e seeing the wrestling team, not the basketball team." I'm guessing coach has brought similar sensibilities into their current strength program.
- Not an above the rim explosive athlete, but again like a football player, has a good standing vert. Dunks one two-handed off a half-step with ease in the first half (as any 6'6" player should, but it was a bit of a surprise considering his otherwise lack of twitchiness). In combo with being tough to move, I think he can rebound at the high-major level.
- Lets the game come to him offensively. Despite those numbers, he really doesn't force much action. His volume is not as dense as some other high-usage guys. He doesn't come off the floor - over 35 mpg for his career is bananas. Also makes smart decisions with his movement - keeps defenders in spots where they can't cover two off-ball players at once.
- Defensively, his highlights are not going to feature a blocked layup on a player who has beaten him on the dribble, nor is he jumping a passing lane for a dunk. When off ball, he is acutely aware of where his man is. Impressive mental and physical stamina to not take a play off.
Mental toughness begets mental toughness. He could get 8/5/2 and he'd make our team better.
