The Erden Watch

First of all, a big congratulations to Team USA for bringing home the gold!  They were the best team throughout the tournament and never let up or doubted themselves, even when others doubted them. 

Semih Erden and his Turkish team put up a valient struggle in the gold medal game but the Americans were just too much for them and they had to settle for the silver medal.  Celtic rookie Semih Erden scored 9 points on 4-of-5 shooting with 2 rebounds and 3 turnovers over 18 minutes off the bench.  For the tournament, he averaged 9.1 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game over the course of 9 games. 

  Throughout the tournament, he showed that his rebounding and free throw shooting will need some work. But, he also showed some promise in other areas.  He is a good passer out of the post and also has a nice touch around the basket.  He also showed that he can keep his cool and come up with the big play when the pressure is on.   He has the intensity down as well.  He showed enough raw talent and potential that it will be interesting to see what he does with the Celtics this season if given the opportunity.  Or, we may get to see him developing with the Red Claws.