Onyeka Okongwu is under seven-feet tall.
Regardless of a steady rise in production, undeniable nightly advantage-creation and an ability to act as an offensive hub - Atlanta's 25-year-old center never seems to get the necessary respect from those around the league, simply because of his untraditional frame.
Every year, even as the Hawks improve their record and inch closer to contention, much of the conversation surrounding their rise is held up by the narrative that their biggest hole is at the center position. As long as Okongwu stays the height he is, those conversations won't reach a conclusion.
While people are gradually becoming less afraid to sing his praises, the latest center rankings from HoopsHype prove he's got a long way to go in earning the recognition he deserves.
Onyeka Okongwu - the 21st best center in the NBA?
That's right, coming off of a season where he averaged north of 15 points, seven rebounds and three assists per game on over 37% from deep, there are supposedly 20 players better at his position.
Some notable names ahead of him include New Orleans' Derik Queen, Washington's Alex Sarr, Charlotte's Naz Reid and Milwaukee's Myles Turner.
The explanation of Okongwu's placement sounded like someone who should be ranked a little higher than 21.
Frank Urbina of HoopsHype wrote, "Okongwu can score from the outside on spot-up shots and from the inside on drives, and he can also protect the paint and switch against ball-handlers on the other end, all while being an underrated playmaker."
His versatility is what makes him, and his fit with the team, special. Atlanta is able to do so much more on both ends of the floor thanks to their center, for simpler terms, not being a cone.
Again, Head Coach Quin Snyder often utilizes him as an offensive hub, running majority of their action through his underrated ability to make plays up top. Being able to switch onto smaller players, on the other end, helped them turn in to one of the league's most effective defensive units towards the end of last season.
Okongwu is set for a major seventh NBA season
Time flies. Seven?
Entering his seventh season in the league, there's no reason to believe Okongwu's yearly progression will reach a sudden pause.
This is the first time in his career that he's beginning the season as a full-time starter. It's time for him, once again, to prove he's significantly better than just the 21st best center in the NBA.
Add us as a preferred source on Google