CHICAGO — Although NBA team executives aren’t allowed to comment on underclassmen who have not permanently entered the draft pool, it does not appear at the predraft combine this week that Nic Wise’s chances of jumping to the league are good.
Wise was not among the 52 players invited, and there are other draft prospects out there who did not or could not show up this week. That means the 60 available draft spots, and certainly the 30 first-round spots that come with two-year guaranteed contracts, are all but spoken for.
“If you’re not even being considered” at the combine,
NBA scout Ryan Blake said, “it might be a good idea to go back to school.”
Wise is not listed on Draft Express’ list of 30 top point guard prospects in the draft, and is actually not in its database at all, though president Jonathan Givony said he would probably add Wise to it if he returns to UA next year.
Givony said Wise is still good enough as a quick combo guard to make a low six-figure sum in Europe next season, but NBA scout Ryan Blake warned that that road won’t be easy.
“When players ask me `Should I go overseas or to the D-League?’, I say you’ll be here (in the United States) in the D-League, you’ll play in an
NBA setting with great coaches and great offenses and it’s the only way you’ll get a 10-day callup” to the
NBA, Blake said. But “why wouldn’t you stay in school, considering the social and educational aspects?”
Playing in Europe “is not as easy as people think. There are a lot of great people over there and the economy ain’t that great anyway.”
I have always thought Nic will be back. He will be the focus on the best coached team since his arrival at Arizona. Regardless of what Katz and Bilas have said about Zona this year, one thing is clear, they watch Zona and talk about it. I suspect that will continue next year – but they’ll be positive, for there is a young, star coach in place. Nic will get be the focus of Miller’s nationally discussed Cats. He’ll be the man on the court and around campus without any competition. Why would he give up such status, elite competition and more nba needed national exposure than ever before for a low six figure income to play on a painfully mediocre to lousy Euro league team that doesn’t pay on time? He’ll be back.
— confused, maybe not 05/29/2009 08:12 PM #
I forgot to mention that three of his favorite team mates will soon be first round draft picks; Bayless, Bud., and Hill.
I can’t imagine that has been lost on him. If he has a great season, he may be the fourth first round draft pick out of Zona over the last three years.
Bruce, is there anyway for the Star.net staff to shorten the type in code. I just had to type in “2,720,000,000 humbled” to post. I think one word, if it’s doable, would suffice.
:-)
— confused, maybe not 05/29/2009 08:16 PM #
You know, Nic just isn’t going to grow much taller, if at all, and his wing span isn’t going to get any longer. By now he must know the NBA is a long shot, including the D league.
I can see where he’s coming from in probably thinking that he won’t learn that much more by staying, and for what if he doesn’t think he’ll make it to the next level; however, there is a thing called a degree that is also at stake here, and by coming back, and playing, it’s paid for.
I truly believe that when the dust settles, and he sits down with his family, Nic Wise will be returning for his final season.
— Adman 05/29/2009 09:54 PM #
Adman, maybe you’re not exactly saying this but I, on the contrary, do believe Wise has a place in the NBA.
Just not right now.
Nic may never be a Nate Robinson because he has very litte hops or zip to his drive.
Jameer Nelson?
Mot quite but close as JN is called upon to compliment his teammates by involve them in the offense and settling things down on the defensive end.
Nic will be playing for his 4th coach when he returns in mid-June.
The pride of Houston, and now Arizona, will take over full leadership of his old, and new, team.
Next season, the latest installment at PG U will lead his team in assists AND points.
And he may even have his team in contention for PAC-10 supremacy and in line for Dance No. 26.
All possible and more than likely probable.
When you consider how many different teams a player stands to play for in the pro league, when you stop and wonder just what Nic would bring to the table a year older and wiser, there isn’t a team in the NBA or Europe that wouoldn’t want such a proven, and improved, commodity as Nic Wise upon graduation from THE UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA.
Think about it.
— Carlos 05/29/2009 11:53 PM #
I know that Wise and Jameer Nelson seem to be comparable (because of size, stature and style of game), but lets tap the brakes a little here.
Nelson was National Freshman of the Year, and won the Wooden and Naismith Awards during his senior season.
Saying all that….I like Nic, and I so hope he comes back.
— Doug 05/30/2009 04:45 AM #
Carlos, I hear you, but respectively disagree. I look at this years draft and see a Jrue Holiday, who played out of position last season, had less than stellar stats, and is rising in the draft because of his physical attributes and potential. I doubt very seriously if Nic, because of his lack of those same physical attributes will ever get drafted regardless of what he does if he comes back. The guy had a great year and everyone knows what he can do. No one can doubt his shooting ability, for one thing. If he doesn’t even get invited to the combine this year after what he’s proven he can do, the message being delivered is pretty clear.
There is little doubt he should come back, but it should be for academic reasons. I don’t see where playing for his fourth coach, taking a leadership position leading the team in assists and points is going to make any difference to an NBA scout, who is looking for potential rather than immediate help for a team unless it’s from someone like Griffin or Derrick Rose.
— Adman 05/30/2009 09:24 AM #
I think Lute saw the same things about Nic Wise because the plan was for Nic to contribute but play behind Shakur, then Bayless, then Jennings, then Gaddy. At least that’s how it appears to me. Wise was to have a supporting role but also a chance to beat somebody out at PG or to start in a double-PG alignment if he could play his way into that. Similar to how Will Bynum may have been viewed.
It’s pretty hard to give up a dream that large. Nic could return for all the reasons Adman says but still keep the dream alive in his heart and keep working on it at UA. It would be a perfect situation for that — not the stats so much as achieving and demonstrating the necessary improvements. Obviously, his improvement targets won’t include becoming taller, or athletic in the way of Nate Robinson.
Is that realistic? Who can really say? Logic and dreams — part of the struggle of growing up, or maybe just of living.
— Portland Catfan 05/30/2009 10:06 AM #
“It’s pretty hard to give up a dream that large. Nic could return for all the reasons Adman says but still keep the dream alive in his heart and keep working on it at UA. It would be a perfect situation for that — not the stats so much as achieving and demonstrating the necessary improvements. “
Ditto.
— confused, maybe not 05/30/2009 10:55 AM #
BTW, not all goals have to be long-term. Nic could take the healthy perspective that he can have a great senior season at UA that he will remember as long as he lives. He can lead a team that will look to him with respect to do that. He can learn more about himself and about basketball from a very player-centric (and even PG-centric) young staff.
If it comes to that, there’s no shame in being a great college player that is not a good fit at the next level — Jason Gardner, Miles Simon, Michael Wright, Salim Stoudamire, Josh Pastner, etc.
I wonder if Wise has any interest in coaching down the road? If so, that would be another reason to come back.
P.S. Any word about Jarrid Famous? Is Coach Heath meeting with him this weekend?
— Portland Catfan 05/30/2009 10:55 AM #
There is absolutely no doubt that the Zona program this coming year would benefit immensely if Nic would return. It’s hard to put a number on senior leadership, but it could well be the difference between that cherished #26 and a sub-par .500 season.
— Adman 05/30/2009 11:27 AM #
For Confused. We talked on an earlier thread about Noel Johnson. Here’s what Brian Dohn of the LA Daily News said on his blog. Brian covers UCLA extensively and pretty much has the pulse of the local recruits.
“Does UCLA have a shot at Noel Johnson if Holiday goes?
I don’t think UCLA wants him. My understanding is UCLA would like to add a pure guard, and I don’t think Johnson fits that bill.”
The only reason I bring this up is because according to Brian, Johnson’s natural position appears to be SF, of which Miller seems to have that position pretty well covered. Haven’t heard if Miller is going after him Perhaps Bruce can give us his thoughts.
— Adman 05/30/2009 11:51 AM #
Adman, Thanks for the info. on Johnson. If he’s more of an SF, I’m not sure Zona needs him as well. On the other hand, he’s very good and I’d be happy to see him become a Cat. Perhaps more importantly, it might be best to save that scholarship slot for a bigger body in the 2010 class or if Famous actually does get out of his LOI – I’d rather Zona attract him. I guess on this one I’m confused.
— confused, maybe not 05/30/2009 12:28 PM #
On second thought, Johnson would be a great shooting guard/point forward type of player, which would nicely compliment Zona – especially if there is not a great deal of improvement with shooting guards next year.
— confused, maybe not 05/30/2009 12:34 PM #
Nic is coming back.
What is going on at SC with Mayo/Bush/Floyd situation? Is Momo leaving? Are we his obvious choice if he leaves? Born Ready? Who’s got the dirt?
— Jacko 05/30/2009 01:11 PM #
It looks most likely that recently-USC-released SF Noel Johnson would end up at either Georgia Tech or LSU. The question came up here:
Should Arizona try to attract Noel Johnson at this time?
— Wise and Lance might only be factors for 2009 (if at all)
— UA has 9 returnees for 2010 (unless Horne explodes)
— UA needs 4 “Arizona good” players for the remaining 4 roster slots
— UA has major needs at 1,4,5 spots for 2009 and/or 2010
— Jarrid Famous could take 1 of the openings for 2009 and/or 2010 (fingers crossed)
— UA needs more offensive firepower, even if Wise returns; Noel can shoot
— UA needs help rebounding; Noel is not strong there or defending in general
— Noel seems “Arizona good” and “Miller-like” in personal profile; i.e., fit for the system
Side-by-side evaluations from ESPN Recruiting Tracker:
Solomon Hill (2009 SF #12, 6-6, 210) — SIGNED
December, 2008: Hill is one of the more unique prospects in the country. Although he is an inadequate shooter from the stripe, he can still dominate a game due to his savvy and skill. He has a very strong handle and despite his big frame he is able to break down defenders off the dribble. He is extremely unselfish and he plays the game like a point guard. His passing is high-level both in transition and the half-court set. In addition, he is one of the better rebounders for his size in the country. He should make an immediate impact for USC, but to reach his potential he’ll need to tighten up his jump shot.
Kevin Parrom (2009 SF #18, 6-6, 200) — SIGNED
February, 2009: Parrom has very good athleticism and quickness, which allows him to get to the rim almost at will. Once at the tin, Parrom uses his decent amount of strength and very good body control to take contact in the paint, adjust in the air, and still finish off lay-ups. He excels in the open court when he has the chance to build up a head of steam and drive to the rim for athletic finishes. He uses floaters and angles very well to finish off a number of plays around the hoop. Parrom could become an even better penetrator if he improves his ball-handling skills and gets rid of his tendency to over-dribble. He could also benefit from adding a mid-range pull-up jumper to his offensive game. Parrom also needs to improve his consistency from the perimeter. He does a good job of playing passing lanes for steals which creates more fast breaks for his team.
Noel Johnson (2009 SF #3, 6-6, 190)
December, 2008: Noel is a very skilled combo wing. He has all the tools for greatness, he only needs add more intensity and consistency. He is a very good scorer with all the shots. He is a solid jump shooter, though streaky, with range to 25 feet. He is very good off the dribble with the ability to create for himself (mostly) and others (sometimes). He is a very good passer when motivated that can be very creative. He can aptly play either wing position with his size and skills. He is a decent rebounder though he could be better with his size and athleticism. He is not much of a defender at this point though that should improve once he gets to the college level. He should have an immediate impact at USC.
Justin Martin (2010 SG #7, 6-7, 190)
December, 2008: Martin is a skilled wing that is an athletic finisher in transition. He can get to the rim where he uses great body control and length to score over or around defenders. He likes to shoot the floater in the lane and the three off the catch with good elevation and a smooth release. Martin also displayed a nice mid range pull up jumper from a one or two dribble starting point. He reads penetration and spots up, comes off screens and creates off the dribble where he easily shoots over smaller defenders. Martin is a good ball handler although at times he turns it over trying to force the action. He is also a decent rebounder but this is an area he could improve especially on the offensive end. Martin must add strength but he has tremendous upside.
(NOTE: Other rankings have Solomon Hill much higher and Noel Johnson not as high.)
— Portland Catfan 05/30/2009 02:27 PM #
Interesting article here:
http://ncaabasketball.fanhouse.com/2009/05/29/memphis-kentucky-athletic-directors-bungle-john-calipari-situat/
Maybe Livengood isn’t so bad, eh?
— Chi_Cat 05/30/2009 04:01 PM #
Not sure if I’m late with this information or not, as I haven’t read the previous posts. Justin Martin, 2010 wing, recently decommmitted from Louisville and now lists Arizona as a school he is interested in. Coincidence? He is a 4 star, rated #56 by Rivals.
http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?Sport=2&pr_key=70939
— Nevada Wildcat 05/30/2009 05:34 PM #
#17, and he also goes to the same high school as Dominique Ferguson who is another big time recruit for 2010. Honestly its a lot of fun to click through Rivals and take a look at the guys the UA is already in on, despite Miller and staff not even putting a team on the floor yet. The next few years are going to be great to watch recruiting-wise, and hopefully the product on the floor will end up being amazing as well.
http://arizona.rivals.com/viewcoach.asp?Year=2010&Sport=2&Coach=1779
— darren 05/30/2009 06:16 PM #
I didn’t notice that Darren, thanks. I am an admitted Rivals addict, checking two or three times per day, sadly! I agree, checking the AZ team page is finally fun again when it comes to recruiting!
— Nevada Wildcat 05/30/2009 06:55 PM #
I want Nic back as much as anybody, but what’s really in his best interest? NBA aside, Nic has a very limited window to time to make a six-figure+ salary. With a balky knee, it’s hard to imagine he plays even 10 years professionally. Then what? He can get a degree anytime, but it’s unlikely he’ll ever make as much as he would overseas next year post-retirement. For his sake (and not mine as a fan), I honestly think Nic should start earning his money now, so he can provide for his family and his future. I think we all need to consider this and take off the #26 blinders
— '97_grad 05/30/2009 08:24 PM #
Miller could really use a kid like Will Barton, who has Arizona on his list. Good shooting guards aren’t nearly as plentiful as wings.
Haven’t heard, but have a hunch that Famous is going to stay where he is. Sounded like all he wanted was some affection from the head honcho who is meeting with him this weekend.
Miller was right on regarding what he has to sell. Playing time is one of the most important items that an elite prospect wants and doesn’t always get from the major programs. The flip side of that is it mostly attracts those who are their mostly to audition for the next level. Hopefully the NBA players union will change their stance. If so it will help Arizona immediately as they need to get a steady flow going.
— Adman 05/31/2009 08:57 AM #
My apologies for the horrible sentence structure used in #21 posting.
— Adman 05/31/2009 09:00 AM #
‘97_Grad,
I think thats a pretty good point. But I do believe that he could potentially get drafted next year or improve his stock for overseas play with a great year this year. As for getting a degree, its a lot easier to finish up right now, than to come back.
— Chi_cat 05/31/2009 10:19 AM #
Agree with Adman re: shooting guard need, although that’s not as great as PG, PF, and C.
My wish list would include SG help: Lance for 2009 (after satisfying all Miller pre-conditions) and Will Barton for 2010. If not Barton, then maybe Justin Martin (see #15 above) with backup from improved “veterans” Solomon Hill and Kevin Parrom.
Jerry Meyer mailbag from May 29 mentions Terrence Jones (2010, PF) and Naadir Tharpe (2011, PG), two more on my wish list. Tharpe has mentioned the possibility of coming out in 2010 instead of 2011, and he leans Arizona according to some.
http://basketballrecruiting.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=950604
Did any of you SoCal residents attend the Pangos All American Camp in Long Beach? If so, what were your impressions? The link is to Jerry Meyer’s blurb that includes mention of Terrence Jones, Will Barton, Alex Kirk (2010 C, Los Alamos), and James Johnson (2010 PF, San Diego).
http://richmond.rivals.com/content.asp?cid=950890
— Portland Catfan 05/31/2009 10:22 AM #
Sorry Portland, don’t know of anyone who attended; however, I do know that Montgomery is recruiting Jones big-time.
— Adman 05/31/2009 11:51 AM #
http://myespn.go.com/blogs/calhisports/0-7-44/Pangos-All-American-Camp-Starts-With-A-Bang.html
write-up on the camp.
— Adman 05/31/2009 11:55 AM #
I agree with Adam, the “wise” choice for Nic Wise is to come back for his Senior year and get his degree. We all know he’s not going to make it in the NBA. Look at Jason Gardner – a lot of people thought he had a chance at the NBA and now he’s playing in Europe. In my opinion, Jason was a better player at UA than Nic.
— David 05/31/2009 03:31 PM #
Confused — I’ll ask about the codes. I have to do them too…
Portland — I haven’t been able to reach Famous’ coaches and have not seen anything reported about this yet in the East. I do think it will clear itself up one way or another this week.
Adman — I don’t think UA is interested in Noel Johnson — that’s the one position they are ok with now…
Jacko — I don’t have any particular insight right now on MoMo other than he changes his mind a lot and USC is highly unstable all of a sudden for obvious reasons — but I know Jones was also talking about Florida before he suddenly signed with USC.
— Bruce Pascoe 05/31/2009 10:44 PM #