If Franklin D. Roosevelt played basketball: power forward, rated 78

Franklin D. Roosevelt as a basketball player: scouting report

Franklin D. Roosevelt is the only American president elected four times, and staying power of that kind belongs in the frontcourt. He would play power forward, the spot where a smart, steady big can shape an entire game. His basketball IQ is the top mark on his card and his defense is next, so he calls out screens, directs rotations and makes sure the back line is set before the ball crosses half court.

His fireside chats on the radio showed how well he could explain a complicated plan in plain words, and that is exactly what a frontcourt leader does in a huddle. His passing is strong for a big, so he can work from the high post and hit backdoor cutters. His rebounding grades out nearly level with his defense, which means he finishes the possessions he helps defend. He was an enthusiastic sailor as a young man and a lifelong stamp collector, the kind of patient, detail minded hobbyist who would know every opponent's tendencies cold and remind his teammates of them before every trip down the floor.

Athleticism is the lowest mark on his card. He is not going to run the floor with younger forwards or dominate above the rim, so he wins with position, timing and anticipation. Center is a close second spot, and his passing even makes point guard a real option at a modest cost, which gives a drafter rare flexibility. Take him in the middle rounds, pair him with an athletic wing who can attack in transition and a shooter who keeps the paint open, and let him run the show from the elbow.

Plays like A cerebral power forward who directs traffic from the high post

Put Franklin D. Roosevelt in your lineup

8 rolls, a starting five and a bench, 82 games. Can you go 82-0? Free, no account.