Hamed HADADI
#15

Ehadadi is of course the most famous Iranian player worldwide – even if back home, he struggles for top billing with the hugely popular Samad Nikkhah.

He took plenty of time to adjust during a difficult first year in Memphis when he was sent to Dakota in the D-League a couple of times although last year he stayed with the Grizzlies for the entire season.

That stability did not produce hugely impressive numbers although that was due to limited court-time in his role as a back-up center.

Sometimes he only got garbage time. Nevertheless, at this stage of his career and at the age of 25, there is still plenty of time for the star to blossom.

He has generally been fantastic for the National Team and has utilised his offensive talents to maximum effect and none more so than during the 2007 FIBA Asia Championships and then the Olympics when he averaged a stunning tournament double-double against the best teams in the world.

He was perhaps less influential last summer but the Iranian fans and even his team-mates will be hopeful he arrives motivated and looking to flourish again with the responsibility and joy of playing plenty of minutes for his country.

Certainly they need his shot blocking ability and powerful moves in the paint since things can be more than a little tough inside for Iran if he doesn’t play.