Freshman Focus is an A10 Talk series that takes a look at some of the incoming freshman for the 2016-17 season. We take a closer look at some of the more talented first year players who will take the court for the first time next season.
Player Profile
Troy Temara was the first 2016 recruit to commit to Dave Paulsen and his Patriots. At 6-8, 220 lbs. Temara is a true power forward who will add a lot of size to George Mason’s frontcourt this coming season, which is much needed after the departure of Shevon Thompson. Temara is from West Genesee High School in Syracuse, New York where he averaged 22 points and 2 blocks per game this past season. With a variety of moves in the post and an ability to protect the rim, he’ll help serve as a replacement to Thompson in the frontcourt.
Troy Temara simply knows what to do with the ball when he gets it on the block. He’s a force down low, and if you don’t have the size to defend him in the paint, he’ll dunk all over you. He’s also got a nice series of moves that he can work in the post to get an open hook shot. He’s got great touch when he’s trying to lay it home on the block. His length is ridiculous as well, and he can come out of nowhere to block a shot. A player like Temara is a huge asset because he’ll be very effective on both the offensive and defensive ends of the floor.
Potential Impact
George Mason really does not have a lot of frontcourt options, and they lack a true center. Because of this, I actually wouldn’t be surprised to see Temara slide over and play the 5 even though he’s listed as a 4. He certainly has the size to do so, I’m just not sure who the Patriots will have playing the 4 for the majority of the season. Jalen Jenkins or new recruit A.J. Wilson Jr. could move from the 3 to the 4, or Dave Paulsen will try to start either Daniel Relvao or Danny Dixon down low. Either way, the Patriots’ frontcourt options are limited, so Troy Temara is going to be a huge key for Mason to find success next season.
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2 Comments
AJ Wilson is redshirting.. DeAndre Abram played the 4 for stretches last year and will likely start there this year.. Jalen Jenkins will not play the 3
Danny Dixon (6’10), Daniel Relvao (6’9), Troy Temara (6’9), Jalen Jenkins (6’7), DeAndre Abram (6’8). Our options for bigs is not limited. I’ll tell you who’s options for bigs is limited, VCU. They have only 3 bigs and 2 are only 6’7.