YutaWatanabe standing out in summer league

Yuta Watanabe, George Washington – Getting a first glimpse of incoming freshmen is a true highlight and benefit of Kenner League action, at least for those tasked with covering  college basketball. This past Saturday was my first chance to watch the Japanese native in person. The 6-foot-8 forward made quite an impression. What’s quite apparent is that Watanabe has a tremendous feel for the game, both as a scorer and passer. The lefty-shooter showed decent range with a step-back corner jumper. He even stood out on a miss. Watanabe missed a layup in traffic, but was the quickest off the bounce and jammed in the putback. We’re not talking about a power player at this point – yes, rather thin – but we are looking at someone who should be able to contribute immediately in GW’s rotation this season. On the same Kenner League team A. Wash Associates with fellow incoming freshman Anthony Swan and the Georgetown duo of D’Vauntes Smith-Rivera and Trey Mourning, Watanabe is scheduled to play Saturday at 4:45 p.m. and Sunday at 8 p.m.

via Kenner League preview: Copeland, Watanabe standing out | Comcast SportsNet Washington.