Rodney Chatman III has become the central figure in the Sheffield Sharks’ offence. With a league-leading usage rate, he combines scoring, playmaking, and adaptability to elevate his team.
What is Usage Rate?
Usage rate measures the percentage of a team’s possessions a player uses while on the court, through field goal attempts, free throw attempts, or turnovers. Chatman’s league-leading 29.01% usage rate underscores his pivotal role in Sheffield’s offence. For context, here are the top five players in usage rate since his arrival:
| Player | Team | Usage Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Rodney Chatman III | B. Braun Sheffield Sharks | 29.01% |
| Trey Tennyson | Bristol Flyers | 27.82% |
| Mike Okauru | Newcastle Eagles | 27.63% |
| Fahro Alihodzic | Caledonia Gladiators | 27.26% |
| Mervin James | Surrey 89ers | 26.99% |
*only players with more than 100 minutes played are included
Unlike another high-usage player, Mike Okauru—who thrives as a primary scorer in transition—Chatman excels in the half court. His ability to control tempo and maximise set plays is central to Sheffield’s deliberate offensive approach.
Sheffield’s Offensive Conductor
Chatman’s playmaking is the backbone of Sheffield’s system. Leading the team with 5.25 assists per game, he orchestrates possessions and often acts as the primary outlet. While Prentiss Nixon does share ball-handling duties, Chatman is the primary initiater and sets the tempo.
His pick-and-roll chemistry with Donovan Clay is particularly effective, generating high-percentage scoring opportunities through precise passes and lobs. This partnership forces defences to collapse, opening up easy finishes and anchoring Sheffield’s offence.
Relentless Paint Pressure
A key element of Chatman’s game is his aggressive drives into the paint. Averaging 7.00 points in the paint per game—second only to Clay on the team—he consistently pressures defences. His 5.63 free throw attempts per game, converted at 85.6%, highlight his ability to draw contact and capitalise at the line.
In pick-and-roll situations, Chatman’s dual-threat nature shines. Whether finishing at the rim or setting up teammates, his relentless paint pressure keeps opposing defences on their heels and ensures Sheffield remains a constant offensive threat.
Threat Without the Ball
Chatman’s impact extends beyond his ball-handling duties. Shooting 38.9% from three on 4.5 attempts per game, he stretches defences with his catch-and-shoot ability. Whether Nixon runs the offence or Rodney Glasgow Jr. takes on point guard duties, Chatman adapts seamlessly.
This off-ball versatility complements his playmaking and driving abilities, making him a linchpin in Sheffield’s system and providing the tactical flexibility needed to thrive in diverse scenarios.
A Player Who Elevates His Team
Rodney Chatman III is a pivotal figure in Sheffield’s success. His ability to create, score, and seamlessly adapt to different roles makes him indispensable in a system defined by balance and precision. Whether orchestrating plays, attacking the paint, or spacing the floor, Chatman’s contributions make Sheffield greater than the sum of their parts.
