VITALS: 6-10, 285, Ozen HS (TX) OVERVIEW: Perkins signed with the University of Memphis out of high school, but decided to enter the draft after an impressive high school career at Ozen High School in Beaumont, Texas. Ozen captured the state title in Perkins' sophomore season and lost in the championship game in his junior and senior seasons. Perkins averaged 27.5 points, 16.4 rebounds and 7.4 blocks this past season as Ozen went 33-1, losing to Fort Worth Dunbar in the championship. Perkins collected 18 points and 13 rebounds in the title contest. Perkins scored six points and grabbed five rebounds in 12 minutes at the McDonald's All-American game. LIKELY DRAFT POSITION: Second round. Perkins shocked quite a few observers by staying in the draft. Many believed the early entry candidate would elect to attend the University of Memphis if he was projected as a second-round selection. Perkins has not worked out for many NBA teams and unwisely skipped the Chicago pre-draft camp, so few clubs have inspected him firsthand. San Antonio (28) would be the most likely organization to draft Perkins in the first round. COMPARATIVE UPSIDE: Eddy Curry, Jamaal Magloire COMPARATIVE DOWNSIDE: Isaac Austin ROLE PROJECTION: Reserve. POSITIVES: Perkins has soft hands and is fundamentally sound with his back to the basket. He shows nice touch on his release, extends over the top of his defender to score and nicely establishes position in the lane. Perkins is not muscular, but he has a broad, physical frame. His short neck and long wingspan allow him to play bigger than his listed height. SHORTCOMINGS: Athletically, Perkins is lacking and has a reputation for coasting on the court. He seems to take plays off, and that will get you in the doghouse of an NBA coach. Perkins has the potential to be an NBA starter, but whether he ever becomes one will depend on how committed he is to improving. WHAT THEY'RE SAYING: "Why would you do that (remain in the draft)? But if he wants to, I'll support him. I'll support him in whatever he does." University of Memphis coach John Calipari in the Memphis Commercial Appeal.
