The unofficial online home for fans of the UAB Blazers. Part of Collegiate Sports Nation (CSN).

Cokley's 6"8 height and 238 weight isn't the problem, the NBA is loaded with players that are that length and weight. Coke's problem is he never developed an outside shot and cannot guard (1,2, 3, or 5) at the NBA level.
Look at every NBA roster and you find Cokely clones everywhere, the exception, those player can stretch the floor and guard multi positions.

In today's games stretch players are like 3 down players in the NFL. Players like Coke are going the way of full back and in some cases the running back. NFL teams look for players (with few exception for elite backs) who can Run, block, and catch. And linebackers that can attack off the ends, cover the tight end, and running backs.

The NBA, College ( see UAB recruits) and even high schools team ( when they have the elite player) are trying to open the paint by spreading and stretching. Players like Coke were the standard at one time, space eater, rebounder, high level of scoring, but not anymore, the game is played from end to end. UAB recruiting appears to be geared toward stretching the floor with players that are able to play and guard multiple positions. In todays games you cannot be a one trick pony and stay on the floor.