This summer, in Pardubice (Czech Republic), we followed on live most of the best 1995 born european players in the U16 Division "A" European Championship. At turkish squad we watched some big names for the future, some of them of 1996 or even 1997 generation. We are talking about 6'10'' center Emircan Kosut ('96) -at the pic-, 6'5'' guard Mert Cevik ('96) and 6'7'' forward Okben Ulubay ('97). What are our thoughts?

 

Kosut, with a great wingspan, runs well the court even his height. All his whole body still need to grow up. His positions on the floor are good, and has also great court vision. Coach Taner Gunay used him a lot, most of times with short rotations. He ended with 2.3 points, 2.6 rebounds and 0.8 steals in 15 minutes.

 

Cevik, who can play with their generation temmates at the PG, has great legs to jump. He is strong, even he will grow up. Had many chances to show his skills. His defender had many problems to stop him when he decided to go straight to the basket. He finished with 1.4 points, 1.0 rebounds and 0.9 assists in 9 minutes.

 

Finally Ulubay, one year younger than Cevik and Kosut, is a lefty forward. He defended french Damien Inglis ('95) at the PF position, making a great job over him. He is strong and many times tried to defend him in front. Great legs and a big back to grow up. On offense he fought for the rebound, and when he was open he looked for the three also. He can play at the SF position in the future, even he already played this in the event. Ulubay had 4.8 points, 2.9 boards and 0.6 steals in 14 minutes.

 

Photo: FIBA Europe / Honza Mudra