By James Blackburn
Game film from Overseas Basketball Camp– #49 Black
I had the privilege again this year to scout the Overseas Basketball Camp in July (www.overseasbasketballcamp.com) which is a showcase event for college players who want to be seen by European coaches and agents. This was my third year scouting the event and this year it was held at the Tarkanian Basketball Academy in Las Vegas, NV.
Over 65 players attended the event hoping to secure a European contract and attract interest from teams. Many of these players played college basketball at the D1 level, had previous overseas pro experience, and some had D-League experience.
The top player in camp in my opinion was Christopher Ferguson (6-9, 200, SF, Mid-Continent University) who just finished his collegiate playing career this past season at Mid-Continent, an NAIA school in Kentucky. In his sophomore year at MCU, he set a school-record with 26 rebounds vs. Indiana-Southeast on Nov. 24, 2009, and grabbed 18 defensive rebounds, the second-most ever in an MCU game. By his senior year, he was averaging a double-double and leading his team in scoring.
I was just as impressed with Chris’s attitude, demeanor, and personality off the court as I was with his skills and attitude on the court. Chris garnered the interest of many of the agents and European coaches in attendance and is destined to have a successful pro career ahead overseas. He could be really special as he has the skills/body/potential/upside to attract interest from D-League and even some NBA teams for workouts/summer league.
Chris is a very long and athletic wing forward who can handle the ball and advance the ball in transition. He can score in one on one situations, is active on the glass, and moves with effortless, fluid movement. What stood out the most to me (amongst other things) was his ability at his size to defend on the perimeter, primarily against quicker, smaller players. Chris runs the floor hard and is excellent in transition, where he can finish above the rim. He blocks shots and could become prolific shot blocker and elite defender with his mobility, length, athleticism, and versatility. Is an above average shooter who can hit midrange and jumpers off the dribble as well as the occasional 3 pointer. He can break his man down and score and get to rim or pull up and shoot in the half court. If .he can add about 20- 25 lbs. of muscle- watch out.
Chris recently signed with BDA Sports Management (http://www.bdasports.com/), the same agency which represents over 25 NBA athletes and many overseas players. He currently has options to play in France or Spain for there respective 2nd division teams. Chris wants to be the best player he can be and maximum his potential. When asked what his goals were in basketball, he said, “I want to be the best defensive player in the world and win the defensive player of the year award in every league I play in.” This is not out of reach or far fetched, as Chris has the drive, skills, and athleticism to accomplish this goal.
Good job Chris ,just keep working hard and don’t give up on whatever you set out to achieve in life Chris.I hope that my son Reggie will work very hard and see what the lord has in store for him as he move on in his college career.We know that he will work very hard like you because he love the sport so much and we know that he has the potential to strive in life.Chris me and my family along with Reginald will be praying for you.Ronnie and Patricia Elkins.