University of Illinois Fighting Illini Men's Basketball Player Profile - Richard Semrau

Player Profile: Richard Semrau
Position: Forward/Center
Height: 6'9"
Class: Sophomore
Hometown: Grafton, OH

Player Summary

Semrau barely saw the floor last year. He's been dogged by injuries his first two years and just doesn't seem to be able to crack the rotation when healthy. The few times I've seen him play he looks like he plays hard and is willing to do the dirty work like picks and rebounding. If he can stay healthy and satisfy the coaching staff that he's working hard, Semrau may be able to be Tisdale's backup at center (although that is not his ideal position). That would allow the Illini to redshirt Stan Simpson (if Simpson agreed) and give him a year to mature and learn the system.

Statistics for '07-'08 Basketball Season

Minutes: 2.4
Points: 0.0
Rebounds: 0.6
Assists: 0.0
Steals: 0.0
Blocks: 0.0

Player Strengths

Semrau probably has the most bulk of any of the Illini's big men. He's shown that he's an above-average rebounder and plays hard. Semrau was once highly rated in high school for his scoring and shooting ability. However, he has yet to show those attributes on the collegiate level. His skill set reminds me a little of former Illini Jack Ingram (assuming that Semrau's jump shot comes around).

Player Weaknesses

Semrau may still be recovering from a serious chest infection from his freshman year. In addition to the injuries, he just hasn't been able to break into the rotation for whatever reason. We have yet to see if he'll be able to develop any offense, but many players have had fine careers doing the dirty work.

Player Projections

Somebody will have to backup Tisdale at the center position. I have a feeling that Semrau may surprise some people and provide quality minutes spelling Tisdale. This would be a big boost for the team if it happens. It would be great to see Semrau set a few picks and chip in on the boards this year. If he can get some playing time and gain a little confidence, I think Semrau may be able to have a couple more productive years for the Illini. However, he remains an enigma and could also ride the bench for the entire season. He's a wildcard this year and his development depends on his health and the development of the other Illini big men.

Projected Statistics for Illini '08-'09 Basketball Season

Minutes: 10.0
Points: 2.5
Rebounds: 2.5
Assists: 0.2
Steals: 0.1
Blocks: 0.1

Sources:
www.espn.com
illinois.scout.com/