By Alen Obrez

Next prospect in series of this year’s draft-eligible European prospects is Edo Muric ('91), small forward from Krka Novo mesto.

21-year-old Slovenian Edo Muric (’91) first introduced himself to European basketball in 2009, when he was invited to play on U-18 All Star game during the Eurobasket in Poland. Back then he used to play on PF position, but it has soon become clear that he is far more dangerous on SF position, which is now his primary position. Edo started his career at Parklji Ljubljana, where he played alongside his brother Dino, who is now playing for Krka's biggest rival Union Olimpija.

He played his first senior season back in 2008, when he was on loan at a top division club LTHcast Mercator. He played on 24 games that season, averaging 4.8 points and 2 rebounds per game. Next season he was approached by coach Aleksandar Dzikic from Krka, and Edo decided to join them. His former club blocked the transfer, so Edo couldn't play for almost a whole season. He worked really hard on trainings, while waiting for season 2010/11 to begin. It must be quite a shock for young player to step in after one year pause, and instantly play both Adriatic league and EuroChallenge. Edo managed that pressure quite well. He started the season as backup SF, fighting for his minutes with Goran Ikonic and Zoran Dragic. Edo had a very successful season. In Adriatic league he helped his team reach the final four averaging 3.1 points and 2.3 rebounds per game. He was even better in EuroChallenge, in which his team had lifted the trophy, after winning the finals against Lokomotiv Kuban. Edo ended the season with 4.9 points and 3.3 rebounds. In Slovenian league he also had a big part in winning the national title. He helped his team with 5.8 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. His biggest reward came after the season, when he was called to Slovenian national team, with which he had played on Eurobasket in Lithuania.

Last season it was hard for him to develop impressive numbers considering the fact, he had Zoran Dragic and Jimmy Baxter on his position, but still he has managed to slightly improve his numbers. In this season, after Zoran Dragiè decided to join Unicaja Malaga, it was time for Edo to show his qualities. The team was strengthened with Slovenian national team SF Domen Lorbek, and everybody expected Edo will again have a minor role in the team. But he proved them wrong. He is a clear leader of the team, both in Adriatic league and EuroChallenge. In Adriatic league he is averaging 11.8 points and 5.4 rebounds, while in EuroChallenge his numbers are even better - 14.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.5 steals. Despite not being known as a "sharpshooter", he has an impressive 47.4 % from the 3 point line.

Standing at 6-8 (202 cm) with amazing body, Muric is a modern small forward. Due to his strength he is also able to play equally well on power forward position. He is an excellent athlete, whose playing style is similar to Richard Jefferson's. He shows nice explosiveness, which often leads to spectacular dunks. He has really quick first step and can beat defender off the dribble easily due to his well trained hesitation move.

Edo is great in defensive roles. He can't be beaten by strengths, and due to his quickness, he is also among fastest cornerman. Edo is very good rebounder due to his athleticism and positioning ability. He doesn't allow a lot of shooting over him. He also has a solid footwork.

His biggest weapon lies in close-range and inside shooting. Due to his incredibly strong body, he is able to push his defender just under the rim, and then score over him. This amazing center technique is a "heritage" from the times he used to play more often as a power forward. From those situations Edo often collects assists, when he attracts another defender, and consequently creates an open opportunity for one of his teammates.

His long-range shooting is not among his greatest qualities, but we must say he significantly improved his shooting percentage in this season, which is a consequence of higher self esteem. In Adriatic league he is scoring 29.7 % from the three point line. His percentage is far better in EuroChallenge, where he has really great 47.4 %. His size and strength allows him to make his own shooting opportunities, which is important for a potential NBA and Euroleague player. In order to become better, he must improve his free throw ability, which now lies at 63.3 %, and his shoot selection.

Overall Muric seems an intriguing second round option for a team, that need a hard working, strong and athletic small forward that will be a first small forward option for Slovenian national team after retirement of Bostjan Nachbar. His talent will be on full display in Adriatic league and Slovenian league, where he will surely have the biggest role in his team.

Photo: ABA League