TNT FINDS TOWER OF POWER IN OMAR SAMHAN

The powerhouse Talk N Text Tropang Texters title defense of their Commissioner’s Cup title will be anchored on a former US collegiate star. TNT head coach Chot Reyes has signed up former St. Mary’s College standout Omar Samhan as their import in the PBA’s mid-season conference. Samhan played four years for the Gaels varsity with career norms of 13.9 ppg and 8.3 rpg in 133 total games. The highlight of his college career was his 61-point performance in back-to-back wins by the Gaels during the 2010 US NCAA tournament. The 6-11 California native pumped in 32 big points in a victory over Villanova during the tourney proper. Samhan, who weighs a hefty 268 lbs., played pro ball with Zalgiris Kaunas in the Lithuanian league during the 2010-11 season. Scouting reports say that Samhan is a very good post player, who uses his size very well to his advantage inside the paint, according to the NBA Draft webite.

“A late bloomer who has shown steady development throughout his college career ... Statistically one of the best big men in the country (over 20p, 10r, 3 blk) … At 6’11, he knows how to use his size and weight to his advantage in the post ... Has good interior footwork to create space to get his shot off ... He knows how to take advantage of mismatches on switches in the post and passes well out of double teams ... Shows patience and poise on offense, willing to pass the ball out and work in reposting to have a better angle for his shot and is constantly working on getting quality post position ... For a low post player he demonstrates good shooting mechanics. Shoots in the mid 70% from the free throw line, and shows range out to 15 feet ... He has improved in the pick and roll this season and his familiarity with it should help him at the pro level ... Was voted Defensive Player of the Year in the WCC while averaging over 11 rebounds and 3 blocks per game. Omar plays hard on defense and uses his size and body to box out, explaining his double digit boards. Demonstrates very strong intangibles (has lost over 60 pounds since his freshman year, strong work ethic, strong leadership qualities, and very good with the media and fans) ...”