"I can pass all over, find open guys": Donovan Clingan confident in his ability to pair up with Rockets' Alperen Sengun in versatile tandem
UConn standout Donovan Clingan is one of the top prospects for the 2024 NBA Draft. The 20-year-old center is projected as a potential third-overall pick. Following the Houston Rockets' surprising leap to the No. 3 overall pick in the draft, the Connecticut star has captured everyone's attention.
Although selecting Clingan seems like the right decision, it presents a difficult situation. Clingan predominantly plays as a center, the same position held by Alperen Sengun, who has become a standout player for the Rockets.
This raises the question of whether Donovan Clingan and Alperen Sengun could eventually play together, to which the 7-foot-2 Connecticut native replied (via ClutchFans):
"I feel like I can be able to step out behind the three-point line and knock down threes to be able to go out there and pair up with another big at the same time. If it’s inside and out, I can play in the post. I can pass on the three-point line, I can pass all over, find open guys, and be able to knock down three-pointers."
Clingan, who began his college basketball career at UConn in 2022, played a crucial role in guiding his team to back-to-back national championship triumphs. During two seasons with the Huskies, He averaged 9.8 points, 7.4 rebounds, 2.1 blocks, and a .645 field goal percentage per game. In April 2024, Clingan announced his decision to enter the NBA Draft.
Donovan Clingan's stats and strength
Donovan Clingan's ultimate weapon is undoubtedly his remarkable height. He stands at 7 feet 2 inches without shoes and weighs 282 pounds, with a wingspan of 7 feet 7 inches during the Draft Combine.
Teams looking for frontcourt talent find him compelling due to his blend of size, abilities, and basketball intellect. Besides, his shot-blocking ability should not be overlooked.
During his sophomore season, Clingan managed to score an average of 13 points, grabbing 7.4 rebounds, 2.5 blocks, and 1.5 assists, per game. In addition to securing two NCAA trophies, the exceptional young talent was acknowledged as an AP Honorable Mention All-American in 2024 and was also included in the Big East All-Freshman team in 2023.
"I feel like … we’ve shown we can win at the highest level on the high stages," Clingan said (via Houston Chronicle). "We went 12-0 in the (NCAA) Tournament the last two years. We won every game by 13 or more."
Apart from Donovan Clingan, the Rockets, holding the No. 3 pick, have several other intriguing options. Some notable names include Rob Dillingham (PG, Kentucky), Stephon Castle (PG, UConn), and Reed Sheppard (PG, Kentucky).