University of Utah’s Austrian center Jakob Pöltl has high expectations for the up-coming season. Photo – Salt Lake City Tribune
University of Utah head coach Larry Krystkowiak went on the ESPN College Basketball podcast to talk about Austria big man Jakob Pöltl.
Krystkowiak said all 30 NBA teams had Pöltl being selected in the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft. But the Austrian decided to come back to the Utes. And the coach has big expectations from his center.
“What Jakob didn’t have a year ago was a go-to post move. He wasn’t a good free throw shooter. He shot in the 40%s on free throws. In order to be a threat down there, you have to be able to finish. He’s gained about 30 pounds since he’s been here.,” said Krystkowiak.
“We decided on more power-based stuff trying to finish over guys, maybe draw some fouls.”
Here is the full talk about Pöltl (Oct 6, 2015).
And check out DraftExpress breaking down Pöltl’s performance against Jahlil Okafor in the 2015 NCAA Tournament.