FanPost

Former ASU Star Ike Diogu Get Another Chance

It was reported today that Ike Diogu has been added to the Phoenix Suns training camp roster. Diogu played very well in the Olympics for Nigeria, showing that he has really developed over the last few years overseas. His showing must have impressed Suns brass enough to give him a look for this season.

Unfortunately for Diogu, this "opportunity" may actually hinder his return to the NBA than help. The Suns current roster, despite the loss of Channing Frye, seems to be loaded up front. For an undersized post player, Diogu faces considerable odds to even make this team.

Between minutes for Scola, Morris, Beasely [when he slides to the 4], and the occasional time when Gortat slides to the 4 with O'Neal at the 5 [if that would happen], it doesn't seem likely that there is even a need for an extra body at that position.

Additionally, with Solomon Jones and Luke Zeller, Diogu has some stiff competition during training camp. Neither of the two suffer from being undersized, and Diogu has not shown a propensity for perimeter play in the least. If he has an ability to slide over to play a bigger 3, he may have a shot, but that isn't within his arsenal.

It is great to see a local product, and all-around great guy, get a shot with the local team. However, it may have been better for Diogu to get a training camp invite for a team that has a need for his skillset. It certainly would increase his opportunity to actually make a team and carve out value during the season. At this point, I don't see him even making this team, but at the most, I see sitting alongside tucker for the duration of the season without sniffing the court.

And having no polls sucks. So, do you think Diogu makes the team? Do you think he gets minutes? comment below!