Washington Huskies Basketball: Tristan Etienne Scouting Report

Earlier today, it was reported that 2014 forward Tristan Etienne gave a verbal commitment to Lorenzo Romar and the Washington Huskies. The 6’10” power forward is the first commitment of the Class of 2014 for Romar. While there may not be a lot of information about the big British Columbian, there’s a lot to like about his game.

Etienne hails from Abbotsford, BC, and has played for Pasha Bains and DRIVE Basketball since the seventh grade. Because the international signee is a little under-the-radar right now, not many fans know a lot about him, but luckily, Bains is more than familiar with Etienne and was able to fill us in.

Because he has dealt with injuries in the past, his physical maturity isn’t where a lot of players his age is. In fact, Etienne still hasn’t lifted weights. Bains says that despite standing 6’10”, size might be Etienne’s biggest weakness. When he hits the weight room and gets stronger, he could be a force down low.

For now, Etienne is able to rely on his height in the post, playing against smaller competition. But in the Pac-12, there will be no shortage of size. According to Bains, Etienne has the ability to expand the floor and hit jump shots while possessing an eye for passing as well.

His offensive game is still developing, but his defense is what stands out. Bains calls him very “fluid and coordinated,” helping him to be one of BC’s best shot blockers. As an athletic big man, he is able to defend the post versatilely and effectively. Bains also calls him very active on the glass and is able to use his athleticism to get around box outs.

Bains thinks that once Etienne hits the weight room and gains strength, he’ll transition nicely into Pac-12 play, saying he has all the intangibles, but lacks size.

Needless to say, Husky fans should be equally as excited to have Etienne as he is to call himself a Husky. After committing, Etienne called UW his “dream school.”