As March Madness approaches, the Washington Huskies' clash with USC offered a spotlight on two promising freshmen: Hannes Steinbach and Alijah Arenas. While both teams might have brief stints in the Big Ten tournament and are likely to miss the NCAA Tournament, this game was a chance to see these young talents in action.
Alijah Arenas, still finding his rhythm after a tough offseason car accident, showed flashes of potential but had a challenging night, shooting 5-of-16 for 19 points. On the other hand, Hannes Steinbach delivered an impressive performance, finishing with 22 points and a staggering 24 rebounds in Washington’s 91-72 victory over an undermanned USC frontcourt. Steinbach's prowess on the boards is no fluke; he's leading the Big Ten in both overall and defensive rebound rates, showcasing an uncanny ability to position himself perfectly and secure the ball.
What sets Steinbach apart is not just his rebounding but his ability to run the floor. He transitions quickly, creating opportunities for fast breaks and odd-man advantages, a skill likely to shine even brighter at the professional level where he'll have more support from elite guards.
In the half-court offense, Steinbach's game is a mixed bag. He can exploit mismatches and make competent passes off ball screens, but he's not yet a dominant post presence. His effectiveness increases when he's attacking the rim in transition, where his speed and momentum make him a formidable threat.
His perimeter game holds promise, too. Although he's only hit 16 threes this season, his 76.7% free throw shooting and smooth pre-game shooting mechanics suggest room for growth. Developing this aspect will be crucial as he transitions to the pro game.
Defensively, Steinbach faces challenges, particularly in rim protection. His 3.5% block rate in conference play highlights a need for improvement in this area. While he can handle switches, his instincts for help defense and shot-blocking need refinement if he's to play center at the next level.
Looking ahead, Steinbach's decision to enter the NBA Draft or return to Washington is intriguing. With draft projections placing him between the 10th and 30th picks, he’s a solid first-round candidate.
However, the allure of a competitive NIL offer might tempt him to stay in Seattle. His strong performance in the German pro league at just 18 adds to his appeal, making him a reliable pick around the 20th spot, though questions about his long-term role in the NBA might keep him just outside the lottery.
In a draft class brimming with talent, Steinbach's combination of rebounding, transition play, and potential shooting makes him a compelling prospect, poised to make waves wherever he lands.