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 From Nba.com: Played in Turkey for five seasons (1997-98 to 2001-02).  Participated in the 2002 Pistons International Games as a member of the Turkish National team preparing for the 2002 FIBA World Basketball Championship In the FIBA World Championships, averaged 17.0 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.1 blocks and 27.0 minutes in eight games, seven as a starter. An early entry candidate for the 2000 NBA Draft before withdrawing his name from consideration. Now eligible to be drafted as a player playing outside the United States who is in the year of his 22nd birthday. Has been a member of several national teams since 1997. Was a member of the Turkish National Team at the 1997 22-and-Under World Championship and the 1998 22-and-Under European Championship. Playing for Tofas Bursa in 1998-99, helped team to Turkish National Cup and league championship. Played for Oyak Bursa in 1997-98 before moving to Tofas Bursa for 1998-99 season. When Tofas Bursa disbanded following 1999-2000 season, was quickly recruited and signed by Efes Pilsen, one of the top European teams. In his first season with Efes Pilsen, has been a contributor while playing 18.3 minutes a game through the first 26 games. Averaging 8.9 points and 6.2 rebounds. Has three-point range and hit an impressive 14 of 27 treys (51.9%). In Suproleague games, has averaged 7.3 points and 3.9 rebounds in 16.2 minutes of play. Last year in Euroleague competition for Tofas Bursa, produced 5.4 points and 5.7 rebounds per game in only 19 minutes per game. In regular season play, averaged 6.6 points and 5.7 rebounds in 19.8 minutes. According to scouting reports, has polished low-post game and is a good offensive rebounder. On defense, has the ability to block shots and defend close to the basket.
Memo Okur Profile

Name: Mehmet Okur (meh-MEHT' oh-KOOR')
Postion: Forward/Center
Nickname: Memo
Born: 05/26/1979
Status: Active
Origin: Yalova, Turkey
Height: 6-11/2,11m
Weight: 249lbs./112,9 kg.
Schools: Efes Pilsen (Turkey)
Drafted: 2001, Second Round, pick 38 by Pistons
Languages: Turkish, English
Website: InterBasket & memo13
Teams (jersey): Turkish National Team (13), Oyak Renault, Tofaş, Detroit Pistons (13), Utah Jazz (13)
Ibn Facts:  A flexible power forward/center that is equally comfortable shooting long jumpers as he is banging down in the low-post, Mehmet Okur is a rare asset and has developed a reputation for hitting big shots during crunch time.

"(Okur) run(s) well. He can really shoot the ball. He can pass the ball. He has some post moves..." Utah Jazz coach Jerry Sloan, 2005


EuroBasket2005.com: How all-around can a center be? Mehmet Okur is out to prove the limits. He can do anything on any part of the court. His immense versatility was always on display but he just couldn’t utilize it to the fullest. Now he is out to prove that he might very well be the best center in Europe.

Okur can do anything you might ask from a big man. He rebounds well. Although he is not the best athlete around his timing make him a great block threat. He has a very good low post game etc etc… Just these qualities would make him an immediate star in a basketball world deprived of quality 2.10 players.

But that’s not all Okur can do. As well as all the talents of a big man, Okur also has the qualities of a small forward. He has a very good jumper and 3-point range. He can put the ball on the floor to abuse other giants who can’t keep up in a foot race with him. He is a tireless worker. Always running the floor like a forward to finish the break. Heck! He even makes his free throws to the tune of %85+. He just created his own position, his own niche on the basketball court. He is a center-forward…

 
Mehmet Okur Links From our forum:  Mehmet Okur's 2005-06  How About that Mehmet Okur?  Hedo or Memo, who is the star?  Turkey Basketball Forum  Article(s): See Below