NCAA Weekly Performers (12/4/2006)--Part One
Al Thornton, 6-7, Senior, Power Forward, Florida State
28 points, 9 rebounds, 0 assists, 2 turnovers, 1 block, 10-16 FG, 1-2 3P, 7-9 FT
Jonathan Givony
Breaking out of what has so far been a somewhat ho-hum season, Al Thornton had by far his best game of the year in what could very well be the signature win that puts his team in the NCAA Tournament. To sweeten the pot, it came on national TV, against his teams biggest rivals--the national champions--and also with yours truly watching the game in person alongside at least a dozen representatives of NBA teamssome being key decision makersfor example Sam Presti of the San Antonio Spurs or Dave Griffin of the Phoenix Suns.
About 10 ½ months ago, we featured Thornton for the first time on this site, talking about his fantastic physical toolsthen compared to Hakim Warrick--but also about the long road he had in front of him before being able to be considered a full-time perimeter player. Nearly a year later, Thornton seems to have made some terrific strides in that area and is looking more fluid and confident on the wing than weve ever remembered him. He did almost all of his damage in this game off the bounceusing his awesome first step to take his man off the dribble and then letting his fantastic legs guide him through the lane to soar for some incredibly athletic finishes. His mid-range game was on full display throughout, coming off a screen to elevate high off the ground for a jumper, utilizing pump-fakes like a pro, pulling up off one bounce confidently and smoothly, or even showing the capacity to execute more complicated playsfor example a fade-away pull-up off two dribbles after a lightning quick spin move. All these moves look a lot more polished than they ever did in the past, as if hes been working on them non-stop since his team was snubbed out of the NCAA Tournamentwhich is reportedly exactly the case.
Thornton might be considered a position-less player at the NCAA level considering the way hes used, but in his case, and with the direction the NBA seems to be heading inwere not so sure thats as much of a negative as once thought. Thorntonplaying the power forward position alongside the 3 combo guards FSU likes to run with at the same time--was defended by a very ill Joakim Noah for most of the game. Regardless of his matchups health problems, there usually isnt much his defenders can do to stop him at this level since were talking about arguably the quickest power forward in the NCAA. Thornton is just too slithery to keep a body on, and when you consider his toughness, freakish wingspan and relentless motor, its no surprise at all to see him end the game with 6 offensive rebounds. He just beats players to the spot on a consistent basis and seems to want the ball much more than anyone else.
Were not talking with a player with a terribly high basketball IQ, nor the best fundamentals in the world, but despite turning 23 years old in just two days, he doesnt look anywhere near a finished product either. His general skill-level could still stand to improve in the half-court, particularly his ability to execute sets, along with working on his shooting range and passing skills. He has a tendency to drive through the lane with his head down, and doesnt have the most polished footwork or body control to stop and finish complicated plays in sophisticated ways, with a pivot-move or up and under for example. Based off what we saw last night, there was really no indication either way on how good of a perimeter defender he is because of the matchups he had. Considering his terrific tools, though, and the fact that hes clearly improving on a regular basis, Thornton will have plenty of opportunities to show scouts his value and solidify his place in the 1st round. Winning games and especially making the NCAA Tournament will be key.