British prospect Tobi Lawal has been a major contributor in Virginia Tech’s NCAA Tournament push.

Virginia Tech may not be one of the leading programmes in the United States, but their 15-6 record (11-2 in ACC play) and ranked victories over teams such as Virginia push them into contention for a place in the NCAA Tournament later in the year.

Virginia’s latest 71-85 defeat at Louisville showed that this roster may not be capable of a deep run come March time; however, they are more than capable of pushing more superior programmes to the wire.

From a UK standpoint, what makes this team most intriguing is British senior Tobi Lawal. A two-way player with outstanding athleticism, versatility and efficiency, the 22-year-old is an undoubted name for the future.

Lawal is a genuine NBA prospect

Standing at six feet eight inches with a vertical jump believed to be around 49.5 inches, Lawal has all of the physical attributes to play with the finest of athletes.

The versatile forward will not be storming into the franchise’s considerations as a first-round prospect, but a late second-round pick or NBA Summer League invitee is a very plausible scenario.

What has established Tobi Lawal as such an intriguing selection is not just his athleticism; it is his capability to thrive in any aspect of the game with great effect.

Defensively, Lawal’s intelligence is just as important as his ability. His strength, dexterity, rebounding (9.8 per game), and rim-protection talent make his potential on that side of the floor outstanding.

Despite falling to defeat at Louisville and only contributing two points, Lawal recorded five blocks — which is well above his season average of 1.8 per game (career-high).

Additionally, his offensive presence has been just as integral to Virginia’s impressive season so far. Lawal’s efficient scoring, again, establishes him as an interesting proposition for potential suitors.

Currently, the British talent is averaging 11.8 points per game, while shooting 50% from the floor.

Virginia Tech’s Tobi Lawal is a prospect that British basketball fans should keep a keen eye on in the future. If he is not fortunate enough to land himself a role in the NBA, his professional career will still be an undoubted success wherever it plays out.

Right now, his main priority is to aid Virginia Tech in reaching its goal of qualifying for the NCAA Tournament, and he can certainly manage this with great effect.