Onyeka Okongwu's evolution as a player has been nothing short of fascinating. During his time at USC, he was hardly known for his three-point shooting, making just one from deep.
Fast forward to his first two NBA seasons, and he didn't make any. But the narrative has changed dramatically in his sixth season.
Okongwu is now on track to triple his previous career high in three-pointers made. Shooting at a solid 38% from beyond the arc and attempting over five per game, he's become a legitimate threat from outside. This isn't just a case of a big man occasionally hitting threes; Okongwu is redefining his role on the court.
What's even more impressive is his improvement as the season progresses. Since February, he's been nailing over 40% of his shots from downtown.
If not for a rough patch in December, where he shot 32%, his season average might be nearing the 40% mark. This transformation has turned him into one of the top high-volume shooting big men in the league.
However, there's been a trade-off. Okongwu's focus on expanding his range has led to a decrease in his two-point attempts.
This season, only 56% of his shots come from inside the arc, a significant drop from 78% last year and over 80% the year before. While his efficiency around the rim and midrange has dipped slightly, it's all part of his growth.
The Hawks' patience with Okongwu's development is paying off. At just 25, he's still climbing toward his potential.
In a league that often demands instant stardom, Okongwu's journey is a testament to the value of trusting the process. Despite being underrated, he's proving to be a vital piece for Atlanta, showcasing the rewards of long-term player development.