Oregon's Arsalan Kazemi was selected by the Washington Wizards in Thursday's NBA Draft, the 54th overall pick in the second round.
NBA Draft 2013: Washington Wizards select Arsalan Kazemi at No. 54
Kazemi was one of the toughest guys in college basketball last season. He now joins John Wall, Bradley Beal and Otto Porter in Washington as the Wizards look to get back to the playoffs.
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Kazemi played one season at Oregon after spending his first three college years at Rice, earning a waiver to play immediately at Oregon amid allegations of racial discrimination at Rice for the Iranian national. He had 9.3 points and 9.9 rebounds for the Ducks last season, and he averaged 15 points and 10 boards in Oregon's three NCAA tournament games before losing to eventual champion Louisville in the Sweet 16.
Over his four collegiate seasons, Kazemi asserted himself as one of the top rebounders in the country. He never averaged fewer than 9.1 rebounds per game in a season. The question with his staying power in the NBA is of what position he’ll play and whether he can score enough to stick. Listed at 6’8, he was never able to be a consistent part of Oregon’s offense, especially on set plays. At his size, he’s likely a power forward in the pros who will have to find some way to contribute apart from his superior rebounding skills if he wants a lasting career.
Kazemi may not be the most talented guy on the floor, but there’s no denying his heart and tenacity, especially around the rim. The Wizards are a team that’s currently rebuilding, and Kazemi’s toughness will be a welcome addition in D.C. if he’s able to lock down a roster spot.
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