At only 20 years of age, the Milwaukee Bucks' Thon Maker is quietly working his way towards NBA superstardom despite his lack of time on the court.
When the Milwaukee Bucks spent the No. 10 overall pick on Thon Maker last June, the selection was met mainly with skepticism. While the South Sudan native offers all the potential in the world with a 7-foot-1 frame, ridiculous length and uncanny athleticism for his size, he's a major project.
And yet, the Bucks rolled the dice. The early returns have been modest at best, but that doesn't mean Maker isn't going to pan out. As a matter of fact, Milwaukee's stars would lead us to believe the rookie is just scratching the surface of his potential.
Take this quote from Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, via Bleacher Report:
"I see some similarities," Antetokounmpo says, and one big difference: "He's a lot better player than me" at the same stage.
Or maybe this tidbit from former No. 2 overall pick Jabari Parker, courtesy of the Lead:
Now Parker may not be an authority on 7-footers and there's likely some bias playing into that statement. Still, it's a glowing endorsement from an intelligent player whose basketball IQ is undeniable.
Unlike Antetokounmpo and Parker, Maker hasn't had an easy road to early minutes. While his teammates joined a miserable Bucks team, the rookie entered the picture just as the club began its ascension.
Milwaukee's standing as a playoff-caliber team is largely to blame for Maker's lack of minutes during his inaugural NBA campaign.
With only a few contests left in the regular season, Maker is currently averaging 8.4 minutes per game. His per-game averages of 3.3 points, 1.6 rebounds and 0.4 blocks don't exactly paint a picture of a rising star.
However, earning comparisons to Kevin Garnett and receiving the aforementioned praise from teammates obviously carries weight.
With a loaded front court, the Bucks simply haven't had the minutes to give to Maker. It's not like they're a lottery team that can afford to just hand playing time to youngsters at this point in the season.
Having players like Antetokounmpo, John Henson and Greg Monroe on the roster simply doesn't allow for much time to experiment.
Maker's time will come, though. And when it does, sparks will fly. We've already seen glimpses of his overflowing potential this season. Tie in his relentless work ethic, immeasurable athleticism and young, star-filled supporting cast, and you've got a recipe for overwhelming success.
When it comes down it, the sky truly is the limit for Maker. It's like he was manufactured in some mad NBA scientist's laboratory. He's got the mind-boggling combination of size, athleticism, maturity and shooting that doesn't come around often.
That's why the Bucks gambled at No. 10, and why they'll soon be laughing at the other nine teams that passed on their otherworldly big man.
With Antetokounmpo showing him the way, Maker will soon assert himself into the conversation as one of the best big men in the league. It's only a matter of time before he figures out how to unleash his unfair advantages on the NBA.
When that day comes, you better believe Maker will be in play for that MVP award he so desires. Dream big, work hard–the results will come.
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