The newest Cavs are in town...first round pick, J.J. Hickson, who held up a jersey number 21, (Campy Russell's old digit)...and 2nd rounder, Darnell Jackson, who showed off a double zero uniform.
Both guys could not be more anxious to be here. Hickson, only 19 years-old, brought his very proud grandmother with him.
Assistant, GM, Chris Grant, who spearheads the draft, remembers asking J.J. when he came in for a workout, who he would have live with him once he turns pro, which is very important for any young player living away from home with a sudden income. J.J. responded "my grandmother". Chris knew right then, the teen from N.C. State was well grounded. J.J.'s grandma is very young and hip by the way...she was beaming from ear to ear.
Hickson played at the same high school in Marietta, Georgia, as Shariff Abdur-Rahim, and has a low-post game, which Shariff came into the NBA with as well...must be part of the Wheeler High curriculum.
Don't fall asleep on Jackson, who is a senior with presence, especially after winning a championship with Kansas a couple of months ago.
Darnell is one of those hungry, hard-nosed players who has a relentless motor. Chris Grant says Darnell reminds him of Grant Long, who had a long, solid career as a 2nd rounder out of the MAC. You may recall Long started out with the Heat and then played with the Hawks and Pistons doing it with hard work and strong will.
Sasha Kaun, the Cavs other 2nd rounder out of Kansas is under contract with the same team in Russia that is coached by Ettore Messina, whom Mike Brown spent time with last summer. Small basketball world!
Drafts can not be measured until years to come...so, enjoy watching these guys develop. It's up to these new Cavaliers now to work to find their NBA niche. Only time will tell if they are the right fit. But know that the tireless homework has been done to make sure these guys fit the Wine & Gold.
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