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UCLA Basketball: Expert Breaks Down High Points of Returning Bruin Center's Skillset

He's ready for a big year!

Noel Sanchez

UCLA Basketball: Expert Breaks Down High Points of Returning Bruin Center's Skillset
UCLA Basketball: Expert Breaks Down High Points of Returning Bruin Center's Skillset /
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Your UCLA men's basketball team has a lot of hype surrounding them heading into the 2023-2024 season as they just recently not only welcomed in a number of experienced assistant coaches but also their long-awaited international star Aday Mara. On top of a number of returners mixed with some new faces, head coach Mick Cronin will look to build off of last year and make a push past the Sweet 16.

And down low on the block with Mara will be Adem Bona in his second year as a Bruin. Bona was able to hold down the paint on both ends in his own freshman campaign and even though his shoulder gave out on him near the end of the year, he still displayed a number of tools that NBA scouts already love.

Centers don't always have the easiest time adjusting to the collegiate game and while Bona still has to polish up multiple areas of his skillset, he does everything that UCLA needs him to and he'll be surrounded by a very talented core once again!

NBA Draft expert Jonathan Wasserman broke down everything to look forward regarding Bona's return this year.

"Adem Bona, UCLA—Gets the most of 6-10, 235lbs with speed, leaping, relentless motor for picking up easy baskets, covering defensive ground/airspace. 5.0 DBPM, 9.1 BLK%. Finishes on O with power or patience. High off-ball impact. Should improve post game. No made jumpers last year"

(Via Jonathan Wasserman)

Bona will have to focus getting from block to block this coming year and proving that he can maintain his motor and health across the course of the season. Plenty of eyes will be on him to help UCLA win games and boost his draft stock.

The Bruins will be quite versatile on both ends of the floor and the 6'10 big man will be tasked to lead this new group.

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Noel Sanchez
NOEL SANCHEZ

Noel is currently in his third year at California Polytechnic University of Pomona and is pursuing a B.A. in Communications with an emphasis in Multi-Media Journalism. He has always had a deep passion for sports and writing.