Fansided

The 50 most interesting players in European hoops: Nos. 20-11

By Trevor Magnotti

DALLAS, TX - JANUARY 22: Pierre Jackson #55 of the Dallas Mavericks takes a shot against Ivica Zubac #40 of the Los Angeles Lakers at American Airlines Center on January 22, 2017 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
DALLAS, TX - JANUARY 22: Pierre Jackson #55 of the Dallas Mavericks takes a shot against Ivica Zubac #40 of the Los Angeles Lakers at American Airlines Center on January 22, 2017 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 11
Next

19. Earl Clark, PF, Besiktas

If Cole’s transition goes well, he should have the type of impact that Earl Clark did last season for Besiktas. The former lottery pick entered the European fray last season, and averaged 13.5 points and 5.8 rebounds, shooting 37.4 percent on 3-pointers as Besiktas surprisingly finished in the Turkish league top three for the first time since 2008. Clark’s perimeter skills as a power forward didn’t fly in the NBA because he wasn’t quick enough or strong enough to commit to one side. But in Turkey, he’s a mismatch, as his length and quick release matter more and allow him to play more full-time as a stretch four.

After bouncing around for years in the NBA, Clark appears to have found some stability, as he returns to Besiktas this season aiming to be a Basketball Champions League favorite. With former Euroleague big man Augusto Lima and Eurocup phenom Ryan Boatright added to the mix, the Black Eagles should have a formidable squad. Clark’s role will be as an offensive anchor, and after years of unfulfilled promise, it’s nice to see that he can be something reliable.

Home/NBA