"He can step out and shoot, he's a good rebounder, he goes inside and can post up," said Al Rubin, of Hoop Scoop recruiting service. "He has good footwork down low. He can definitely help Temple. He's already a college player."
The Owls do return senior forward Rahlir Hollis-Jefferson and soph big man Anthony Lee. They also will have freshman Devontae Watson, although it's hard to project how much he'll be able to contribute and exactly how soon.
O'Brien was the America East rookie of the year in 2008-09, when he averaged 12.5 points and 4.6 rebounds. His numbers the next season were 13.8 and 6.4. In 14 games as a junior, he was contributing 11.6 and 5.8 before getting hurt on Dec. 31, 2010. A decent shotblocker, he was also considering Boston College, Virginia and Providence. When he announced his intention to transfer in July, Purdue had expressed interest as well.
O'Brien, who visited Temple last month, told OwlScoop that one of the reasons he chose the Owls was a chance to compete in the NCAA Tournament. Because BU is moving to the Patriot League in 2013-14, it is ineligible to compete for the conference championship.
