What kind of impact can Henry Ellenson make on the Detroit Pistons during his rookie year? We’ll explore that, along with his background, strengths, weaknesses, and how he projects long-term with the Pistons.
Background
Ellenson is one of four siblings–all of whom are excellent athletes.
His brother Wally played basketball and ran track at the University of Minnesota before joining Marquette University. His brother Ellwood plays basketball at Bemidji State. Sister Ella is a highly recruited high school basketball player who will play division I basketball somewhere soon. Henry’s dad played college basketball at Marquette and Wisconsin, before playing professionally over seas. Mother Holly played basketball at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire as a combo guard/foward.
Needless to say, basketball is in the Ellenson’s blood.
At Rice Lake high school, Henry excelled, eventually earning McDonald’s all-american honors in 2015.
Despite being heavily recruited by NBA factories like Kentucky and Michigan State, Ellenson chose to stay home and play at the university of Marquette where he averaged 17 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks.
At the NBA combine, Ellenson measured 6’11.5″ in shoes with a 7’2.25″ wingspan. He was one of six players at the NBA combine with a standing reach over 9 feet.
Welcome to Motown @henryellenson13https://t.co/wjv4AK7bQt
— The Players' Tribune (@PlayersTribune) June 24, 2016
High school highlights
Oh, and there was also that time he played Jimmy Butler one-on-one.
Next: Strengths