Birmingham Detroit Country Day had offered 2 major college scholarships to Keith Benson. He came to Oakland University, where the mentors were not certain what they saw in the 6-foot-8 recruited. Then he appeared with the Golden Grizzlies, winning consecutive Summit League player of the year awards and in his final two seasons he averaged a double-double. He too grew determining 6-11 in shoes this week at the National Baseball Association predraft combine.

Yet he is not a domestic name in spite of his success. As an example, take this question a media representative asked him at the predraft combine: "Your numbers did not change much in last few years. Have you improved?"

Unexpectedly, 10 rebound, 17 points, and 3 1/2 blocks every match was not enough?

"I carry on improving year by year," Benson asserted, retaining his normal calm behavior, knowing he was being observed. "My teammates did get better, and I endeavored to get them the ball more than the year before."

In next month, he is anticipated to be the first OU player drafted.