2011-12 Georgetown Hoyas Player Profiles: Henry Sims

Look Back:
Last year, Sims improved both his points and rebounds totals, averaging 3.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 0.7 blocks while shooting 57.8% from the field and 50% from the free throw line. Henry showed lots of potential in non-conference play and had some decent performances in the Big East against Pittsburgh (6 points, 5 rebounds), Villanova (5,5), and Marquette(7,3). On the whole, however, while showing improvement over his first two years, Henry has left Hoya fans wanting much more out of his play.

Expectations and Projections After The Jump:

Expectations:
Henry has shown glimpses of realizing all that potential that the coaching staff saw in him coming out of high school. This year, with no one in front of him in the Hoyas frontcourt,  it's Henry's time to shine. The expectations for Henry are for him to be a viable Big East center and duplicate Julian Vaughn's production from most of last year.  If Sims can at least reach those levels, around 8 points 6 rebounds per game, then the Hoyas will likely have a successful season.  Sims doesn't have to be an all-star, he just has to be competent, avoid foul trouble, and stay on the court. The center position is definitely one of the biggest question marks on this team and I expect Henry will be a sufficient answer.

Projection (Cynical):
Henry is what he's been to date - a goofy guy with unrealized potential. Unable to take over the reigns of manning the post, Sims forces the Hoyas to rely on freshman for the majority of the minutes at center and Henry drifts off into obscurity while reminiscing over his failed run for GUSA Vice President. Henry has not shown any consistency over his three year career. His FT shooting is especially a concern, with Sims never having shot over 59% from the line in his career. So cynically we get the same Henry from last year, which just is not going to cut it.    

Projection (Delusional):
Henry finally blossoms into a legitimate Big East player. He realizes his potential and gives the Hoyas a consistent post presence all season. He showed in China that even over longer minutes he can produce at levels equal to or better than the percentages he posted in limited minutes last year. He has shown a good penchant for blocking shots, posting the second best block % last year and blocked a whopping 15% in China. Henry also posted the team's best defensive rating in China and posted an efficient 115.5 ORtg. Sims has the potential to have a Brian Zoubek or Josh Harrellson like senior year that catapults him into the second round of the NBA draft. It's not as crazy as it might sound. Henry has great height, a solid jump shot, is a decent rebounder, and has good shot blocking ability. Throughout this season, Henry shows enough of an offensive touch coupled with above-average rebounding and shot blocking and is able to convince an NBA GM to take a flier on him.