A Bold Take on Duke’s Interior Presence
There is plenty of room for debate when it comes to ranking the top big men, but one argument is gaining attention: a healthy “Big Pat” deserves to be at the very top of the conversation.
While acknowledging that personal bias may be involved, the case for Patrick “Big Pat” rests on more than reputation or hype. His combination of interior defense, passing ability and polished footwork gives him a skill set that can influence games on multiple levels.
The most important part of the argument, however, comes with one major condition: health.
The Importance of Being Healthy
The emphasis on a healthy Big Pat is significant. Injuries can dramatically affect a player’s mobility, confidence and overall effectiveness, particularly for a big man whose impact is often felt around the rim.
At full strength, however, the argument is that Big Pat brings a defensive presence capable of changing the complexion of a game.
His interior defense is particularly intriguing. A dominant presence around the basket can force opponents to reconsider how aggressively they attack the paint, while also providing teammates with greater freedom to pressure the ball on the perimeter.
That defensive impact alone makes him a difficult matchup and an important piece for any team looking to control the interior.
More Than Just a Defender
Big Pat’s value does not stop on the defensive end.
One of the qualities that separates him from many traditional big men is his ability to distribute the basketball. His passing has been highlighted as one of his strengths at Duke, giving the offense another dimension when the ball enters the post.
Instead of simply catching the ball near the basket and looking to score, he can recognize cutters, locate teammates and help keep the offense moving.
That ability becomes particularly valuable against defenses determined to collapse on him. If opponents send additional defenders toward the paint, a big man capable of making the right pass can punish that strategy.
Footwork Draws High Praise
Then there is the footwork.
Big-man footwork is one of the most difficult skills to master, requiring balance, timing, patience and an understanding of how to create space without relying solely on athleticism.
The comparison to Hall of Fame center Hakeem Olajuwon is certainly a lofty one, but it illustrates the level of admiration for Big Pat’s movement around the basket.
His ability to maneuver in tight spaces, establish position and work through different scoring angles adds another layer to his offensive game.
The Case for No. 1
Ultimately, the debate comes down to what a team values most from its interior player.
For those prioritizing defensive disruption, passing from the frontcourt and advanced footwork, a healthy Big Pat presents a compelling case.
The argument is straightforward: when fully healthy, his impact can extend well beyond scoring.
That is why some observers are comfortable putting him at the top of the list without hesitation.
The comparisons will continue, and other big men will have their own strengths. But if Big Pat returns to full health and performs at the level his supporters believe he can, the debate over where he belongs could become considerably more interesting.
For now, the message remains clear: don’t overlook Big Pat when he is healthy.