In a league filled with scorers and playmakers, Charles Thompson has carved out an identity as the SLB’s premier defensive anchor. With a league-best 3.00 blocks per game, Thompson’s shot-blocking prowess makes him a nightmare for opposing offences. But what truly sets him apart is the mental side of his game—his anticipation, discipline, and decision-making.
Thompson doesn’t just block shots—he sets the standard for modern rim protection. His incredible block-to-foul ratio of 1.34 highlights his ability to contest shots without compromising Leicester’s defensive balance.
Rim Protection Elevated
For Charles Thompson, defence is more than physical tools—it’s a mindset. As he puts it: “Defence is just hard work… A lot of it is mental concentration and physical effort. Anybody can be great on defence. All you have to do is communicate and show effort.”
Thompson’s block-to-foul ratio is unmatched, showcasing his precision and judgment. Here’s how he compares to the SLB’s top shot-blockers in the Championship:
| Player Name | BLK Per Game | PF Per Game | BLK/PF Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charles Thompson | 3.00 | 2.23 | 1.34 |
| Demond Robinson | 1.63 | 2.38 | 0.68 |
| Alen Hadzibegovic | 1.46 | 2.18 | 0.67 |
| Dame Adelekun | 1.46 | 2.73 | 0.53 |
| Jaiden Delaire | 1.39 | 2.85 | 0.49 |
| Tyreek Scott-Grayson | 1.08 | 2.67 | 0.41 |
| Skyler White | 1.00 | 3.20 | 0.31 |
| Malik Dunbar | 0.86 | 1.86 | 0.46 |
| Donovan Clay | 0.83 | 2.42 | 0.34 |
| Donovan Mitchell | 0.82 | 3.09 | 0.26 |
*only players with over 5 total blocks are included
Thompson’s ratio is nearly double the next best, showcasing his unparalleled discipline and precision. His ability to block shots without fouling not only frustrates opposing scorers but also keeps Leicester’s defensive structure intact. His presence forces offences to rethink their game plans—an impact that goes far beyond the box score.
A Team Built on Discipline
Leicester’s defensive discipline isn’t just a reflection of Charles Thompson—it’s a team-wide strength. The Riders lead the SLB Championship in limiting fouls, averaging just 13.69 personal fouls per game, a league-best by a significant margin. Here’s how Leicester compares to the rest of the league:
| Team | PF Per Game |
|---|---|
| Leicester Riders | 13.69 |
| B. Braun Sheffield Sharks | 15.62 |
| Bristol Flyers | 16.13 |
| Caledonia Gladiators | 16.39 |
| Surrey 89ers | 17.25 |
| London Lions | 18.36 |
| Manchester Basketball | 19.27 |
| Newcastle Eagles | 20.17 |
| Cheshire Phoenix | 20.33 |
By staying out of foul trouble, Leicester maintains defensive intensity while denying opponents easy points at the line. Thompson’s block-to-foul ratio exemplifies this philosophy, anchoring a defence that prioritises clean contests and calculated aggression.
Every Coach Wants a Charles Thompson
Charles Thompson’s mental edge has long been recognised. His Towson coach Pat Skerry once remarked: “If you had 13 guys like Charles Thompson, you wouldn’t need coaches.” This high praise reflects the professionalism, work ethic, and attention to detail that Thompson brings to every game.
Thompson isn’t just the league leader in blocks; he epitomises defensive discipline and anticipation. His ability to dominate without fouling is central to Leicester’s identity, highlighting how effort and precision can define not only a player but an entire championship-calibre team.
Links
- Leicester Riders article on Charles Thompson’s journey to the pros: https://riders.basketball/the-eye-of-the-tiger-charles-thompson-on-his-journey-to-the-pros/
- The SLB Show interview with Charles Thompson: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1S3K3UHNT7tC88gK9vYzde?si=d1093c06a67c44ae
