DeJuan Blair

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March Madness '09 Watchlist: DeJuan Blair

DeJuan Blair #45 of the Pittsburgh Panthers goes up for a shot in the first half against the Connecticut Huskies on February 16, 2009 at XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Career Stats
Height
6'7''

Weight
265 lbs.

Per Game Averages
Points - 13.4
Assists - 1.0
Rebounds - 10.6
Free Throw Percentage: 62.3%

DeJuan Blair is a sophomore center for the University of Pittsburgh.

Nickname: Big Fella

Strengths:
Blair is physical on the court, and he has reach, his outstretched arms span more than seven feet, giving him the ability to score on tall defenders and snatch any rebound. He also has quick feet and a good hook shot.

Weaknesses:
Although he has a good lateral game he could use some work vertically. His free throw percentage needs a lot of improvement and he needs to work on his defensive game, particularly blocking. For how physical he is offensively and his arm reach he should be doing way more shot blocking. Also needs to improve on his midrange shot.

Why to Watch:
Despite his weaknesses, Blair has had a successful season with Pitt and they've come to rely on him. He dominates on the court and is currently third in the nation in rebounds. His personality, as much as his athleticism has won over the local community and he's got a sturdy fan base. ESPN columnist Dana O'Neill wrote about Blair, “He is a people collector, attracting fans and friends as he walks through his neighborhood, across campus and on the court.”

Blair is undersized for his position in the NBA and could use at least another year, or two to hone his skills in college. It's doubtful he'll make an appearance in this year's draft, but if he does he'll go in the first round.

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