Donovan Clingan is headed to the NBA, and the previous UConn heart believes Huskies coach Dan Hurley “finally” will be part of him within the skilled ranks.
Hurley turned down a six-year, $70 million provide from the Lakers earlier this month to remain in Storrs for the prospect to win a 3rd consecutive NCAA championship.
“I knew he wasn’t going to depart,” Clingan stated Tuesday on the NBA’s media availability in Midtown. “I knew he was going to remain, I knew how a lot he beloved UConn. I knew how a lot UConn meant to him.
“Clearly, he had to have a look at the chance. It’s an important alternative for him. I do know he’ll finally need to go to the NBA. He’ll by no means depart UConn to go to a different school, however UConn’s house for him and I do know he’s going to provide every thing he’s bought to go for 3 in a row.”
Former UConn guard Stephon Citadel — like Clingan, additionally a projected lottery choose — additionally “didn’t actually assume” Hurley would take the Lakers gig.
“It’s laborious to stroll away from such an important program on the highest level proper now,” Citadel stated. “However for his future, I’m unsure whether or not he desires to educate within the NBA or not. I do know he has the flexibility to, I do know he can coach any group of fellows.”
USC guard Isaiah Collier was a freshman guard on the Trojans alongside teammate Bronny James final season.
LeBron’s son’s draft vacation spot will provide some intrigue.
Bronny averaged solely 4.8 factors in 25 video games after getting back from a cardiac arrest episode final summer season.
“He’s gonna be actual good,” Collier stated. “Individuals don’t actually see it as a result of … think about going by that kind of state of affairs. It’s laborious to come back again from that. I’m pleased with him for going by that state of affairs and bouncing again, after which to see who he’s as we speak. Whoever will get him is gonna be good.”
Requested if he believes the youthful James will likely be drafted by the Lakers, Collier smiled and added: “I don’t know. I don’t make these choices.”