Fresno State Athletics
Center of Attention
1/27/2000 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Jan. 27, 2000
FRESNO, Calif. - To produce a successful basketball program, one must assemble a team that is capable in all facets of the game. Quick, pestering defenders on the perimeter along with mobile and strong players on the inside make it possible to prevent easy baskets for the opposition. At the same time, every member of the squad must be able to perform just as efficiently on the offensive end of the floor.
With the college game requiring more quickness, precision and increased physical play out of its athletes, it is tough to find a man with good all around skills. Entering the season the Bulldogs return four starters from a year ago who all have strengths in certain areas at their respective positions. One man who seems to be putting it all together, though, is junior center Melvin Ely.
After completing a full season as the starting center in his first year of college ball, Ely is gaining respect as on of the top big men in the WAC. During the `98-'99 season, the 6-9 communications major from Harvey, Ill. put up solid numbers. He started in every game he played in, sitting out only once due to illness. In 32 contests he averaged 11.2 points, 6.47 rebounds and an impressive 91 blocks. Ely rejected a career high six shot attempts against Temple on New Year's Eve of '98 and his final block total was the best single-season mark in school history.
Last season Ely was named to the WAC All-Newcomer and All-Defensive teams and earned the team's Top Defensive Player award. His immediate impact for the `Dogs and his ability to alter oppenents' shots proved to be deciding factors in his reception of those awards. This year the communications major was picked as a preseason first team All-WAC performer by the Sporting News. Although much recognition will be inevitable, Ely hopes to concentrate on playing his role.
"When I step onto the court, I just want to give my team whatever it needs night in and night out," Ely said. "I'm going play my role as best as I can. It is just a matter of going out and working hard everyday."
Ely came to Fresno State in the Fall of '97. He sat out his freshman year to meet NCAA eligibility requirements and then focused on preparing for his sophomore year. In his second year as a Bulldog he was immediately pushed into a starting position. But in his first collegiate game, Ely scored 26 points and grabbed 10 boards in 27 minutes. He proved that a cornerstone of Fresno State basketball would be wearing number 33 for the next several years. Ely continues to polish his skills. He knows there is much more to learn about the game of basketball, but it is apparent he has made tremendous strides.
"When I first came here, I was just an athlete," Ely said. "Since my arrival I've transformed myself into a solid player, mostly because of what I've learned from my coaches and through experience."
"Physically I've gone from 190 to 240 pounds. Now I'm much stronger and can play a significant part in the offense as a force in the post. I still have to grow more mentally, though."
Ely presence in the front court is extremely important to the team's success. Offensively there are many ways in which Ely can score. Early on this season he will definitely have to carry some of the scoring load because of an injury to senior Courney Alexander. His ability to draw double teams will present outside opportunities for Terrance Roberson and Demetrius Porter to hit the three. On the defensive end, Ely will continue to cause havoc in the paint. His ability to alter shot attempts discourage opponents from driving the lane and often his blocked shots are turn into easy transition buckets for his team.
"My jump hook and turn around jumper is much smoother and sharper," Ely said. "I have been able to add those types of moves to my game in the past year that should compliment the rest of my team."
During the remainder of his career, Ely has several goals he would like to accomplish individually and as a team. The `Dogs will first focus on winning the WAC while compiling significant wins to earn a trip to the dance. Ely believes that as long as everyone plays to their ability and knows their role, things will fall into place.
