West Virginia University (WVU) center Harlan Obioha is gearing up for his final season with heightened expectations. Harlan's athletic journey has been a unique blend of size and skill. Nicknamed 'Big Harlan', he stands as the sole 7-footer on the WVU men's basketball roster. However, his stature has evolved over the years. Harlan entered college at 350 pounds in 2021, but has since shed weight, currently weighing around 265-267 pounds. This transformation is attributed to his strong relationship with WVU's strength and conditioning coach, Jason Martinez, and his own dedication to fitness.
Harlan's playing style is characterized by his passing abilities. Coach Ross Hodge acknowledges that while Harlan is a skilled passer, he could benefit from being more aggressive. Harlan's passing prowess can be traced back to his childhood, inspired by watching his mother, Tabetha, play college basketball. Despite his passing skills, Harlan's high school stats reveal a scoring machine. During his senior season at Hoxie (Kan.) High School, he averaged an impressive 28 points, 11 rebounds, and four assists per game, earning him the state's Class AA Player of the Year title.
After high school, Harlan received a Division I offer from Ole Miss to play both football and basketball. However, he chose basketball and enrolled in a Colorado prep school for further development. This decision led him to Niagara, where he began his college career as a bruiser, but has since evolved into a more well-rounded player. At UNC Wilmington last season, Harlan averaged 9.2 points and 6.0 rebounds per game, showcasing his versatility.
As he enters his final season at WVU, Harlan is in better shape than ever. Coach Hodge praises his court movement and passing skills, particularly in pick-and-roll situations. Harlan is embracing a leadership role, aiming to be an everyday energizer and a role model for the younger players. Additionally, he is being asked to increase his scoring, which he is adjusting to. Despite his passing-first mindset, Harlan is learning to balance it with scoring, a skill he is refining.
One surprising fact about Harlan is his initial lack of interest in KU (Kansas University). Instead, he was a fan of Wichita State and Kansas State. However, with WVU hosting KU on January 10, Harlan is eager to face his alma mater. Harlan's journey from a high-scoring high school player to a versatile college center is a testament to his growth and determination, making him a key player to watch in his final season.
