UCLA Basketball: Incoming International Swingman's Solid Fit With Blue And Gold
College basketball is far different than how the game is played in the NBA but when it comes to the international level, I believe there are many more similarities between the two styles. Ball movement and buying into the system are preached heavily in both communities and unlike the NBA, iso possessions and heavy three-point shooting are not seen as often.
This is why someone like Burke Buyuktuncel joining the UCLA Bruins this season will end up being a huge game-changer for their roster and bring a ton of versatility to their group. UCLA has been leaning heavily on international recruitment these past few months and it appears that Buyuktuncel was easily one of their favorite players they've scouted as of late.
He stands at 6'9 and looks to contribute on both ends of the floor as he is able to switch onto some guards on defense and also boasts a very polished post game. Buyuktuncel has years under his belt as a starter in the Turkey BSL and also represented the country recently in the FIBA U-19 World Cup All-Five team.
Bruin Report columnist Tracy Pierson unpacked all of his positives on the offensive side of the floor and how he could be an instant contributor for the Bruins.
"He's a true face-up four, with a nice back-to-the-basket game, but with also a very effective offensive skill set facing the basket. He's a good driver and a crafty scorer, and, while he's not quite the pump faker that senior Jaime Jaquezwas, there is a little bit of that old-man craft to his game. He's a great passer, having great vision in anticipating cutters or finding open kick-outs. He's a very good rebounder, particularly out of his area, having great anticipation for the ball off the rim."
(Via Bruin Report/247 Sports)
We cannot wait to see him suit up for the first time and get rolling in the system!
