SMU’s Underrated Defensive Anchor with Elite Rim Protection
Cannen Cunningham, the 6-10 center for SMU Mustangs, stands out not just for his 6.0 PPG and 3.8 RPG but for his elite defensive intensity and 131 career blocks—ranking sixth in school history. Unlike many stat-heavy players, Cunningham’s differentiator is his relentless rim protection, 52.1% field goal accuracy, and a personality that thrives in high-pressure moments, as seen in his 17-point NIT performance. Though he entered the 2015 NBA Draft undrafted, his injury-free career and consistent 20-minute bench contributions make him a reliable fit for teams needing a defensive-minded, high-efficiency big man who elevates with intensity rather than flash.
