Melvin Anderson Ely (/iːˈlaɪ/; born May 2, 1978) is an American former professional basketball player who is an assistant coach for the Canton Charge of the NBA G League.\n', '

A 6\'10", 261 lb (118 kg), power forward–center from Fresno State, Ely was drafted by the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round (12th overall pick) of the 2002 NBA draft. At Fresno State, he enjoyed a prolific career under the coaching of Jerry Tarkanian.\n', '

While attending Harvey Thornton High School, Ely earned All-American honors from McDonald\'s and Parade. As a senior in 1997, he averaged 15.5 points per game, 9.3 rebounds per game and 5.2 blocked shots per game during the regular season and was named the Chicago Sun-Times player of the year and first team all-state. Ely led his Wildcats to a second-place finish in 1995 and 1996 and third-place in 1997. During Ely\'s 3 years as a starter, Thornton Township posted a combined record of 93 wins and 4 losses, including marks of 32-1 in 1997, 31-1 in 1996 and 30-2 in 1995.\n', '

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