Yesterday was closing day for those former NBA draft aspirants who decided that maybe another year of schooling would not be so bad, after all. Of course, last year we learned through Randolph Morris that you do no absolutely have to pull out of the draft on deadline day. But it’s still a good idea.
Here’s what we know thus far:
- In the draft
- Renaldo Balkman — South Carolina up-and-down artist decided he had tortured poor Dave Odom long enough.
- Jordan Farmar — As expected, UCLA point guard remained in the draft. A move that could have an adverse effect on where Rajon Rondo is selected.
- Kyle Lowry – Villanova point guard also decided to stick with the draft. Another move that may hurt Rondo’s standing.
- Daniel Gibson — Texas guard foolishly decided to keep his name in the draft. He’s nowhere near ready.
- Ronnie Brewer — Now an ex-Razorback and most everyone in the SEC outside of Stan Heath is happy to see him go.
- Out of the draft
- Aaron Gray — Pittsburgh center did the smart thing returning to the Steel City for his senior season.
- Arron Afflalo — UCLA’s Ben Howland at least gets one of his two top-flight guards back.
- Carl Elliott — George Washington guard may have been more on a fact-finding mission that a serious path toward the draft. Smart move to stay in school.
- Nick Fazekas — Nevada center could be a very high pick next June.
