By Rafal Juc

 

He was one of the biggest prospects of 1990 generation after signing a long-term contract with prestigous team Olimpija Ljubljana, and two years ago was in NBA Draft’s orbit. But now is struggling in second polish division. What happened with Tomasz Nowakowski? 

First time Nowakowski showed his skills to international scouts was during 2006 U16 European Championship. Although did not present anything big (was averaging only 0.4 points and 2 rebounds per game), he impressed many people with his body, size, athletic skills and quite good coordination. In effect he signed long-term contract with Union Olimpija Lublana, were Nowakowski met another polish prospect: Kamil Pietras (’88). During his Balkan’s adventure never got serious chances in first team and spent years (2006-2010) being loaned to weaker slovenian teams. For polish big man undeniably the best season was 2009/10, when he was playing for Luka Koper. Being just 19-years-old Nowakowski was averaging 10.6 points and 5 rebounds. In April 2010 player and his agent Kenneth Grant made controversial decision and declared Nowakowski’s eligible in NBA Draft. Without chance for NBA pick withdrawed from draft and decided to continue his career at Slovenia. But season 2010/11 was frankly one and long losing steak for him.

Due to health problems Nowakowski played only 14 games, averaging in 13 minutes 5 points and 2.3 rebounds. To rebuild his shape polish prospect decided last summer to come back home country, where signed contract with one of the best teams in second division: Start Gdynia. Was a good decision? 22-years-old center so far has got disappointing numbers: only 2.6 points and 1.1 rebounds in just 7.9 minutes of action.

6'10'' Nowakowski for all his career was used by coaches as center, but he prefers playing on power forward position. Nothing surprisingly, especially that his body is very thin and weak. He definitely impresses with really nice jump shot from midrange and can hit open three pointers. Has good feeling for the game and shows solid court vision, but does not present any post game skills, however. Due to evident lack of muscles Nowakowski has got big problems against stronger opponents and as an effect in offense he is mainly limited to wait on perimeter. 

Twitter of the author: @rafjuc

Photo: Gdynia