http://espn.go.com/nba/news/2001/0408/1169570.html TUCSON, Ariz. – Forward Richard Jefferson, a key to Arizona's drive to the national championship game, decided to skip his senior season and enter the NBA draft. He earlier said he'd be back next year. Jefferson averaged 11.3 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.7 assists in 35 games as the Wildcats reached the NCAA final before losing 82-72 to Duke. He shot 47.9 percent from the floor and 34.4 percent from three-point range. Jefferson scored in double figures in 53 of 84 of his career games. He posted career averages of 11.1 points and 5.0 rebounds, while shooting 49 percent from the floor and making 77 starts. "It has been a lifelong dream of mine to play in the NBA, and I feel like the time is right for me to go," Jefferson said. "I have enjoyed every minute as a member of this program." Jefferson is only the third Wildcats player in 18 years under coach Lute Olson to leave school early for the NBA. --------- What a great year to have 3 first round draft picks. ------------------ Thoughts?
hell yeah. ------------------ Chris Webber at the July 28, 2001 3:00 PM news conference when he announces where he will go: "It seemed tough, but with guidance from Steve Francis, I learned my true destiny. That destiny is to play for the Houston Rockets, to bring them back to championship glory. One big man is all they need, and I believe I can fill that void. Thanks to the loyal fans in Sacramento, but Houston, Texas is where I belong."
I like this kid. He very well could develop into something special. ------------------ There is a very fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness."
Starting to feel A LOT better about the draft! If Grizzard and\or Wallace from 'Bama declare and assuming they are on the board when the Rocks draft along with Jefferson, who would you draft? What if Joe Johnson also declares and is on the board? I'll get back to you with my answer! ------------------ [This message has been edited by Live (edited April 09, 2001).]
I haven't seen much of Joe Johnson, so I'll leave him out. I like Rod Grizzard a lot, perfect SF size, smooth shooting, lengthy arms to help on defense. Also great handles. Wallace didn't impress me as much. His shot scares me, and I don't think he's a long 6'7'', or a legit 6'7'', which makes him closer to an SG size wise. Very strong and active, but not spectacular IMO. It'd come down to Jefferson and Grizzard....knowing Rudy's preference for the more mature/older players, he'd probably go Jefferson, which is certainly not a bad choice. ------------------ "That's been a lifelong dream of mine." -Vince Carter, after laying it in on a breakaway, much to the Vancouver crowd's displeasure. [This message has been edited by NIKEstrad (edited April 09, 2001).]
If Rodney White or Shane Battier are available I would take them in front of Jefferson. Being a big Arkansas fan I've seen alot of Joe Johnson, and he is a STUD. But he's only a sophomore, and has only played 1 and a half years of college ball, so I expect him to stay in school one more year. ------------------
Totally agree with ya NIKEstra, especially on Wallace. He just hasn't impressed me. ------------------
