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Men's Basketball

Friday, June 29, 2007

Wright hits lottery

Ex-Jayhawk tapped 13th by Hornets

By By Ken Davis - Special to The Journal-World

Julian Wright, right, poses for a photo with NBA commissioner David Stern after being selected by New Orleans Hornets as the 13th overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft. Wright, a Kansas University product, was made a lottery pick Thursday in New York.

Julian Wright, right, poses for a photo with NBA commissioner David Stern after being selected by New Orleans Hornets as the 13th overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft. Wright, a Kansas University product, was made a lottery pick Thursday in New York.

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New York — Julian Wright made it clear he didn't want to go down in NBA Draft history as one of those selections regarded as the "best player available." Style of play was Wright's priority. The former Kansas University forward wanted to be a good fit for the team that decided to call his name.

Wright got his wish Thursday night when the New Orleans Hornets made him the No. 13 pick overall in the 2007 NBA Draft.

The wait lasted more than one hour and 20 minutes, and Wright wasn't among the top 10 picks as originally forecast. But the 6-foot-8 forward was smiling as he pulled on his Hornets cap and shook the hand of NBA Commissioner David Stern.

"I'm definitely excited," Wright said. "I look forward to playing with (point guard) Chris Paul. He's not only a good player, but he's a good person. I don't personally know him, but he has a really good vibe with everyone and makes everyone play better. I just really look forward to it."

Wright had not worked out for the Hornets, who finished 39-43 and were fourth in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference last season. But Wright's agent, Rob Pelinka, said he had conversations with Hornets general manager Jeff Bower early in the process, and New Orleans made it clear a workout wasn't necessary.

Pelinka said the Hornets envision Wright moving into a point-forward role in coach Byron Scott's "disciplined fast-break" style. Pelinka called Wright "a perfect fit" for the Hornets.

"Their style of play is centered around playmakers, and they felt Julian was one of the better overall playmakers in the draft," Pelinka said. "They were really hoping there was a chance they could get him and put him with Chris Paul. Since early on they let me know how highly they thought of him. They definitely see him as a playmaker on the wing."

With Paul, David West and Tyson Chandler in the New Orleans lineup, the Hornets appear set at point guard, power forward and center for the near future. Forward Peja Stojakovic is under contract for the next four years but will be trying to return from a season-ending back injury. His health and the pending free agency of forward Desmond Mason meant the Hornets needed a swingman. Wright certainly has the versatility to play several positions, and that made him attractive.

photo

Kathy Willens/AP Photo

Julian Wright, right, poses for a photo with NBA commissioner David Stern after being selected by New Orleans Hornets as the 13th overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft. Wright, a Kansas University product, was made a lottery pick Thursday in New York.

Wright, now in line for a salary of $1,449,300 under the NBA structure for first-round picks, had participated in workouts with Minnesota (No. 7 pick), Boston (No. 5), Milwaukee (No. 6), Charlotte (No. 8), Sacramento (No. 10) and Philadelphia (No. 12). But, sitting with Pelinka, his mother, father and brother, Wright showed no signs of anxiety as those picks came and went. He applauded as other players were selected and appeared to be sending text messages on his phone between picks.

Wright said he felt "pretty composed" throughout the process.

"I appreciate the honesty of teams," he said. "Going through this with my agent, we were talking about the workouts and just trying to alleviate a lot of the anxiety. We would ask how high I was on their list or they would give us options (regarding) certain guys on their list. And that makes it obvious.

"It's a deep draft, and I respect that. At these workouts I tried to work as hard as I could and let things fall where it did. Like I said, I'm happy to be where I'm at."

Pelinka said Wright would attend a press conference with the Hornets today. He expects Wright to participate in the NBA summer league and anticipates no problem coming to an agreement on a contract.

As Wright made his assigned rounds, doing interviews with the print media and nearly a dozen television networks, his mother said there was a feeling of relief when her son's name was announced. Gina Wright said she didn't become concerned over reports in recent days that Julian would possibly drop as low as the No. 16 pick.

"(The waiting) was OK; it wasn't too bad," Gina Wright said. "We had pretty much resigned ourselves to be happy with whatever happened, whatever the outcome was. I had butterflies leading up to that moment, but I'm fine now. There were rumors. But those are just people's opinions."

Gina Wright said she always told Julian he would know when it was the right time to enter the draft. Both of Wright's parents said they supported his decision to leave after his sophomore season at KU. Paul Vinson, Wright's father, said it is important for his son to continue his academic career. Wright was on a pace to graduate from Kansas in three years.

Julian drafted by New Orleans at 13

Former KU basketball standout Julian Wright was selected 13th overall by the New Orleans Hornets in the 2007 NBA Draft.

"I hope he graduates," Vinson said. "I'll be more happy about that than him pursuing the NBA. He has a great deal of determination. He wanted to finish (as quickly as possible) because he knew it would be a possibility he would be leaving early."

Wright said leaving early from a school with great tradition is difficult. He said he thought it was difficult even for No. 1 pick Greg Oden of Ohio State.

"I'm fortunate to be in this situation, and I'm going to make the most of it," he said. "I will definitely keep in contact with everybody that has helped me with this process. I've had their support, and I'm so grateful for that.

"Hopefully I can be a guy that maybe guys who go (to Kansas) in the future can look up to. Hopefully I can set a good example and be a hard worker, improve and flourish and just hold it down for the Kansas alums."

Wright was asked Wednesday to give a self-scouting report and he started with his ability to dribble the ball and create offense.

"That's always been my biggest strength, creating off the dribble," Wright said. "I feel like my mid-range game is really solid. And mid-range in the NBA is 17, 19, 20-feet. I feel like I can get my shot off. I definitely have to improve the mechanics of my shooting and things like that."

Wright, the fifth KU player to be selected in the first round since 2002, said it was a little strange being the only Jayhawk at the draft. He expected to be sharing the stage with KU classmate Brandon Rush. The 6-foot-6 Rush declared for the draft on April 26 but decided not to sign with an agent. That turned out to be a good move since Rush tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee in late May, just before the NBA Draft camp in Orlando.

Julian Wright

Rush had ACL surgery on June 1 and is in the early stages of rehab, with the hope of returning to the Jayhawks next season.

"That just hit me (about Rush) the other day," Wright said. "That's how life is. He didn't really get a chance.

"I feel like he had a really good chance to do well in the workouts at the scene. To be unbiased, I felt he was the cream of the crop (of shooting guards). There are a lot of small forwards in this draft but not a lot of shooting guards. He definitely would have been appealing to a lot of organizations.

"I've talked to him a little bit. This definitely hurts. He didn't even get a chance to see if his stock would rise or anything like that. I definitely feel for him in that sense. It's all up to him as far as how fast he wants to get back to help Kansas and help himself. He's going to be very appealing in the draft next year."

Wright admitted he has to work on making better decisions on the court. Scouts loved his ability to pass the ball. But there were times at Kansas when he tried to make the spectacular play especially when he was passing. And that led to turnovers.

But Wright also has the reputation as a good teammate and making good decisions off the court.

"I feel like I have good personal skills, good people skills in the locker room," he said. "That can really help. Just the ultimate team player, I guess."

That description also fits Paul, one of the NBA's top citizens and a player with high character. Less than half an hour after being drafted Wright said he could imagine working with Paul to help New Orleans in its continuing recovery from Hurricane Katrina.

"The NBA, it's a job and you're playing, but we definitely have a social responsibility to really help the community," Wright said. "So, I'm really looking forward to that as well. I have never had the time to just travel to New Orleans see how it is now, but I heard it's improving. Hopefully, I can be a role model in that respect."

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Comments

KoolKeithFreeze (anonymous) says...

"Hopefully I can set a good example and be a hard worker, improve and flourish and just hold it down for the Kansas alums." Good quote. Love this kid. Take the money and run Julian. Whether he flourishes or not, he's a millionaire now, so obviously made the right decision. Hope he gets some PT next season...

June 29, 2007 at 6:33 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

larkandtyler (anonymous) says...

"he's a millionaire so obviously he made the right decision"...i thought that lawrence was filled with academics and liberals, not capitalists and conservatives. JW just gave up a free education for money. You can rob a bank and get money. You can't get a real KU education through correspondence courses. He will regret not coming back to KU, winning a championship, greatly improving his shooting and draft status, and more importantly than any change in his pocket, not getting a free on-campus KU educational experience. Good luck rebuilding that team in the Western Conference. Bad draw (2 more spots and he's on a immediate championship contender in Detroit).

June 29, 2007 at 8:36 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

justanotherfan (anonymous) says...

The purpose of college is to get educated so that you can get a job, a good job. Julian now has a job that he loves and he will be paid well for it.

Free education or being paid to play a kid's game? Gimme the paycheck...especially when that paycheck will be for what most make in a year every two weeks (about 56K every pay period). Nope, can't fault Julian for that at all.

Realize that life does not end once you leave Lawrence... that's when it begins, larkandtyler.

June 29, 2007 at 8:46 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

larkandtyler (anonymous) says...

He has a "time limited' job with 0% security. Great? My wife and kids would beg to differ. What's he going to do when he gets hurt next year or retires? I CAN fault greed and vanity over knowledge and truthfulness (lying about staying in school and caring about an education, then bolting w/ no degree).

June 29, 2007 at 8:58 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayloco (anonymous) says...

larkandtyler- Last I checked, NBA contracts are guaranteed no? Time limited or not, he became a millionaire four times over last night. I don't think you are being harsh to JW, but do you really believe that if someone told you that you have a guaranteed 5 mil staring you in the face if you go pro, that you would return to school? I understand he lied about pursuing a degree, but what if he got hurt playing for KU this year? Then what? He maybe cashes in a million dollar Lloyds of London policy AND he misses out on the other 4 mil he would have gotten by going pro early. I think it is very easy to be noble and honorable when you aren't the one sitting there making the decision. I can NOT fault a guy for making a choice to take guaranteed money and setting himself up for life. As much as I wish he would have held true to his word, nothing anyone can say can make me disagree with his final decision. Good luck JW.

June 29, 2007 at 9:09 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

jross1972 Joe Ross says...

well said justanotherfan. I'm about to put my foot in it but for now you're holding down the fort just fine.

Julian represented Kansas well and put his heart into playing here. Now he's making millions in the league and we still have the ever-present naysayers.

Go Ju! Get ya money boi! And rock chalk Kansas!

June 29, 2007 at 9:11 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

KUMatt2001 (anonymous) says...

To stay in college or leave early for the money?

Why don't you ask Al Horford, Corey Brewer, and Joakim Noah!

All 3 stayed for their Junior year, All 3 went ahead of Julian, and All 3 are better off for doing so!

Perfect example of what can happen when you're not blinded by dollar signs and can see the big picture.

And what about helping your teammates? Do you think the other two Florida players would've been drafted had they not had the exposure from the team staying together for a second big year?

FIVE players drafted in one year, and 3 in the top 10... WOW!

June 29, 2007 at 9:13 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

larkandtyler (anonymous) says...

Education over money. Peace over war. Happieness over suffering. I guess it's just the true Lawrence liberal in me coming out (and a little bit of selfishness that he's not returning to what would have been the #1 team in the country, little scared of Carolina and their depth now).

June 29, 2007 at 9:13 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

jross1972 Joe Ross says...

"Hopefully I can be a guy that maybe guys who go (to Kansas) in the future can look up to. Hopefully I can set a good example and be a hard worker, improve and flourish and just hold it down for the Kansas alums."

This comment says it all for me...

June 29, 2007 at 9:15 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

KUMatt2001 (anonymous) says...

Do you think he's saying that because he feels a little regret... he HOPES people can look up to him and not be disappointed in him?

Is that your point?

June 29, 2007 at 9:17 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

larkandtyler (anonymous) says...

a-men KUMatt! Could you imagine if Arthur, Rush, Wright, Kaun, Collins, Chalmers and maybe Russ were all draft ready next year at the same time? JW's status (and paycheck for those of you who care so much about money) would have increased substantially.

June 29, 2007 at 9:17 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

JayCeph (anonymous) says...

Julian's a good kid who will return in the off-season to finish his degree. It's not the ideal scenario but it is the one he finds himself in.

I'm proud of his attitude and am sure he'll represent KU well in the pros. (If only he hadn't told everyone he's 100% positive he'll be around for at least 3 years...) I wish him the best and hope he does well.

Besides... the Hornets will probably end up in KC anyway and he'll be playing close to 'home.' *sic* ;)

June 29, 2007 at 9:20 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

Jaydub (anonymous) says...

larkandtyler
"What's he going to do when he gets hurt next year or retires?"

If he gets hurt, I'm guessing a million dollar salary will help him afford tuition. That 4mil might not always be there. Besides, It sounds like he fully intends to earn his degree in the future. How can you fault a guy who just accomplished his childhood dream and is actually excited about giving back to the community. JW is a stand up guy and I wish him nothing but the best.

Larkandtyler, stop being a hater. JW is a damn fine Jayhawk.

June 29, 2007 at 9:36 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

Shazam (anonymous) says...

We can't expect to recruit players who are lottery picks after one or two years and have them for all four. Their first responsibility is to themselves followed by their responsibility to their team/school. Julian made the best decision for himself and his family. While I'll miss him playing for Kansas, Self can use Julian as an example while recruiting top players. We're better off for having had him, and I wish him lots of success. He will forever represent Kansas proudly.

June 29, 2007 at 9:43 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

jhwkfan162515 (anonymous) says...

I've said several times that JuJu made the wrong decision because he wasn't ready for the NBA yet, and I'm not changing my mind. But I hope, now that he's a Hornet, that he'll prove me wrong in the years to come. Goodbye, JuJu. You will be sorely missed in Lawrence!

June 29, 2007 at 9:45 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayloco (anonymous) says...

KU Matt-I think you are putting a little too much stock into the "team" argument. All 5 of the guys from Florida were excellent players. None of them were drafted because the team "stayed together". The other 2 Florida players would have been drafted regardless. They are solid NBA prospects. Using that line of thinking, Darnell Jackson should get drafted next year because of his exposure on a solid team. I am not bashing your stance, just think you can't discount the fact that all 5 of the Florida players were very good players. I think Horford definitely benefitted the most. I don't think he goes 3 last year. Brewer I believe was picked about where he would have went last year. Noah might have actually went higher last year than he did this year. I guess I just don't buy in completely to the fact that JW made the wrong decision to go pro. Every person has their own rationale and his led him to go pro. So be it.

June 29, 2007 at 9:45 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

jhwkfan162515 (anonymous) says...

Meanwhile, now that Kevin Durant is a Seattle SuperSonic, we don't have to worry about UT next season. They'll be worthless without him. So long, Shorthorns!

June 29, 2007 at 9:46 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

jhawkdan42 (anonymous) says...

larkandtyler you are the definition of a liberal, take everything you can and give nothing back but idiotic statements. JW, you made the right choice,good luck!

June 29, 2007 at 10:24 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

KUMatt2001 (anonymous) says...

Jayloco, you may be right. I could be looking at the drafting of 5 players and the 2 titles as cause and effect in the wrong order.

But take a look at Chris Richard. You bring up Darnell Jackson, which is good because their size and stats are similar. Richard might be a better low-post scorer (I really don't remember), but do you think he still gets drafted if the other 3 had gone a year ago, and Florida has an average season his senior year?

Hypothetically speaking... Let's say we have a big run through the regular season and the tourney this year. Kaun and Jackson have really put it together their senior year- Sasha has developed into a real scoring threat and Darnell is the best 6th man in the conference (just like Richard was). I'd say he could have a shot at getting drafted late in the second round, where had Rush gone pro, none if it would have been possible because we wouldn't have gotten the exposure.

Noah (as much as he annoys me) could have gone much higher had he left after his sophomore year. But he stuck around and won a second title, and you see all the results... these guys are national celebrities and next thing you know, 3 go in the top 10 and 5 are drafted in all.

I think in some cases, players go to the draft early because they are riding their high status based on potential... and the longer they stay in college the more they are exposed as the player they really are. In Julian's case, his game has progressed tremendously each new year at Kansas. I believe one more year would have given him the chance to really put it all together and showcase his talents even more on a national level. AND put the rest of the team in the spotlight where maybe something similar happens, and a team starts taking a look at a player like Darnell and thinks there is a place for him in the NBA.

Julian said all along he was staying. Then after the season, he found out he'd be a lottery pick, got all excited, and went for it. That's his choice. The Florida guys had that choice and rationally decided to have some patience, wait one more year, and do something really special. Now they are all, as a group, better off for doing so. (and so is the Florida program and their place in history)

June 29, 2007 at 10:58 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

larkandtyler (anonymous) says...

Take everything you can (especially from the underprivlidged) and give nothing back, sounds like a WASP conservative to me. Manhattan is west of Lawrence. Point that direction and keep walking. KU is tradition. 4 years is tradition. Go to USC if you want to play for a year and make money. Come to KU if you care about basketball, team chemistry, love of the game, and commitment to your school.

June 29, 2007 at 11:03 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

KURUSH1530 (anonymous) says...

This isn't the 20th century anymore. 4 years is tradition? Didn't you have a post earlier saying something like...oh let me find it, "a-men KUMatt! Could you imagine if Arthur, Rush, Wright, Kaun, Collins, Chalmers and maybe Russ were all draft ready next year at the same time?" Collins, Arthur, Chalmers, Rush and still Wright would be leaving early, but you commend that with two thumbs up. So what's the difference between this year and next year? He though he was ready and the NBA proved his point. Love of the game? Isn't that why these guys leave early and take it to the NBA? It's there love of basketball and a dream to make it to the NBA that pushes them towards leaving.

June 29, 2007 at 11:28 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

Chicago_JHawk (anonymous) says...

Apparently larkandtyler fell asleep in 1994 and just woke up. Players leaving early is a reality. Get used to it. When you recruit talented, sought-after players, there is a good chance they won't stick around for 4 years. They are under no obligation to do so, either. JW's money is guaranteed for two years - at just a hair over $3M total for the 13th pick this year. Not bad, if you ask me.

June 29, 2007 at 11:31 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkox (anonymous) says...

Everyone back off of Julian. He made the right decision for him, last time I checked going anywhere in the lottery wasn't a bad spot to be. He'll be fine, he's said he's gonna get his degree and his parents seem bent on him doing so. I'm glad that he got taken where he did because he'll be with an excellent coach with a fantastic young roster, in a city where Ju will be able to exercise a lot of his personality being a role model in the community. This should be a great day for Hornets and KU fans alike, and I look forward to being able to say that more players like Julian are Jayhawks, even if only for what feels like a fleeting moment! Rock Chalk, Jayhawk!

June 29, 2007 at 11:39 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

seattlehawk_78 (anonymous) says...

I took Julian's word at face value, he had no reason to deceive anyone. Bottom line larkandtyler, people change their mind.

That being said, I think it would have been in Julian's best interest to stay another season. He would have improved his stock as an NBA player, earned his degree, contend for Player of the Year and have an opportunity to win a NC. I think the one thing these kids overlook is the opportunity that is right in front of them. Danny was that rare student-athlete that saw it, the chance to win a championship. It's not hard to comprehend the motivation but when it's all said and done, unless he wins a ring in the NBA I think Julian will regret missing that opportunity. Danny never got a ring in the NBA and I'm pretty sure he's okay sacrificing that one season in the NBA for the championship he earned at KU.

June 29, 2007 at 11:44 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

larkandtyler (anonymous) says...

Leaving early is not a reality at KU. How many players have left KU before their Junior year? Oh yeah...only JW. Way to start the trend. If this continues, KU will cease to be the great traditional student-athlete university that it has always been. Pierce and Gooden were bad enough, but freshmen and sophs leaving KU? That means either we are recruiting the wrong players, or college basketball has become the NBA-D league.

And in case you didn't know, playing for money (NBA) is not love. It's a job. Playing at Southern Arkansas State as a walk on while still earning a degree is love of the game. Money changes everything. Ask any professional athlete (basketball, swimming, or figure skating, i don't care).

June 29, 2007 at 11:46 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

larkandtyler (anonymous) says...

seattlehawk - good point. I'm a high school science teacher. I also took JW's word at face value. And when a 19 year old lies directly to my face or goes back on their promise, they lose a lot of my respect.

June 29, 2007 at 11:50 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

jhawkdan42 (anonymous) says...

larkandtyler The players that come to KU don't owe you or me anything, they come to play for a great basketball program, a great coach and a chance to make it into the NBA. I would love it if everybody stayed for 4 years but that is a pipe dream(like the rest of your views) wake up and come into the 21ST century!

June 29, 2007 at 11:52 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

kylecisnum1 (anonymous) says...

lol jhawkfan1625! so true

June 29, 2007 at 11:56 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

larkandtyler (anonymous) says...

Where do you think the money for that scholarship given to JW comes from?

June 29, 2007 at 11:57 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

jhawkdan42 (anonymous) says...

larkandtyler, Go root for S. Ark st. or west babtist shoreline then you won't have to worry about your players leaving early for the start of their career choice, THE NBA

June 29, 2007 at 12:02 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

larkandtyler (anonymous) says...

that's your response jhawkdan??? Nice. That's what makes KU great. Tradition. Respect. Committment to the school and your fans. Danny is KU. JW was obviously a mistake that hopefully wont be repeated. Three year committment minimum should be the rule at KU. I guess the good of "the one" far outweighs the good of the many (teammates, coaches, fans, taxpayers, etc.). Sad.

June 29, 2007 at 12:12 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jhawkdan42 (anonymous) says...

larkandtyler If you really are a high school teacher I feel sorry for your students because they are being taught by an idiot who probably still thinks the world is flat

June 29, 2007 at 12:43 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

digitalkookie (anonymous) says...

larkandtyler...here's a couple ideas...A). stick to high school science. a subject you "apparently" know a thing or two about!!! B). get real. expecting blue chippers to stick around to "honor" their "obligation" to an institution is absolutely absurd!!! the world is an evolutionary place my friend...perhaps you are not teaching that in your KS classroom!!!

that being said, congratulations and big ups to juju!!!!!! you will make jayhawk nation proud for years to come...

June 29, 2007 at 12:44 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

larkandtyler (anonymous) says...

no, thats why i left kansas my friend. Creationist, are you jhawkdan? Good talk, Russ.

June 29, 2007 at 12:44 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

larkandtyler (anonymous) says...

kookie - what? learn how evolution works before you post again. It's sad when words like "honor", "committment", "truthfullness" are laughed at by some of you on this sight. Any people wonder what happened to America...

June 29, 2007 at 12:52 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

digitalkookie (anonymous) says...

larkandtyler...i believe having a degree in environmental science qualifies me to speak on such topics as evolution. please refrain from bringing your moral majority opinions into this...fallwells dead...take a hike!!!!

June 29, 2007 at 1:07 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

Chicago_JHawk (anonymous) says...

larkandtyler- Leaving KU early WAS not a reality at KU. Nor has it been at most schools, save for the past 10 or 12 years. It's becoming the reality everywhere (except at S Ark St and the like).

You've complained about how the team hasn't won a championship in years, but see how well we'd do if a 3-year minimum policy was enacted at Kansas. We'd never recruit anyone. All the kids who come here believe they have a shot at the NBA, most sooner than later.

Also, did JW really lie right to your face? He never personally told me anything...

June 29, 2007 at 1:08 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jhawkdan42 (anonymous) says...

larkandtyler I was raised by a high school biology teacher and thank god he had a brain, what happened to yours?

June 29, 2007 at 1:09 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

KFoz (anonymous) says...

The basic math skills I received from KU leads me to the conclusion that a million dollar salary is better than a free education. You can now comfortably pay for your education with plenty of money left over. That sounds like a sound, rational thought process. Does that make me a capitalist? College basketball, and even KU, has become a big business. It is the NBA's developmental league, no question. So, as we all went to KU for an education, we also went to improve ourselves for a vocation. Whether someone goes to the NBA, Europe, or simply gets involved in coaching, sports medicine, broadcaster, etc., they leave KU with a vocation they did not have before they came to KU. Basketball is a business, a vocation, and business has been good. It's a lot different now than 20 years ago, let alone 50 years ago. If Danny Manning blew his knee out his senior year instead of his rookie season in the NBA, he would not have made the living he did if at all. And as I look at my season ticket renewals, read about the TV and radio contracts, apparel license sales, parking revenues, etc., KU seems to be making a ton of money off of kids in exchange for a free education whether it be 1 year or 2 or 4 years. Reality seems to be getting in the way of waxing nostaglia of days gone by.

June 29, 2007 at 1:21 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

nmuller11 (anonymous) says...

how can you blame julian for changing his mind? he obviously had enough information from NBA people to sway him that way. he had two great seasons at KU and was a positive influence on everyone around him. i can understand questioning his decision if he didn't end up being a lottery pick, but that didn't happen. one of the reasons he came to KU was to have the opportunity to play at a great school with great tradition and atmosphere but when the time came, he did what was going to benefit him the most. every player at kansas hopes to one day make the NBA and Julian got that opportunity earlier than maybe some others. Rush would have done the same thing if had not gotten hurt. Rush, in my opinion would have been a top 20 pick this year, look at the other guys that went in the first round. if julian would have been drafted as low as Josh McRoberts was, then ok you have some room to complain. but to say that pierce and gooden were bad enough is ridiculous because gooden went fourth and pierce went in the top ten as well..pierce is a superstar and gooden is arguably the second best player on his team..one that made the NBA Finals if I'm not mistaken. simien and langford might have hurt themselves not going when they should have and look at them now. dont get me wrong im glad they stayed but this hurt them in the long run. this will only help bring in more high profile players to KU and KU will not become a DLeague stop before the NBA. i wish julian would have gone to the Bulls instead of Noah who i dont think will do that well but going to the Hornets will put him in a great situation where he will get to play early, in the west, fast break team, almost made the playoffs, Chris Paul, young athletic core around him, and great coach. i would have been disappointed if he would have gone to the sixers, hawks, kings, because those would not have been good situations for him or his style of play.all things look up for julian and i hope he does well, yes he has much to improve upon but has tremendous potential to do great things..if you think about it no KU player who has been drafted in the first round has ever diasppointed in the NBA..KU will do great, be even deeper when Rush is ready, we will have one of the best frontcourts with four very solid post players in Aldrich, who i think will do big things right away, along with Jackson,Kaun, and Arthur who will all have breakout seasons. We will have the best backcourt in the nation, hands down..so there is nothing to worry about we have one of the most complete teams next year if not the most complete..look at the injury to Rush as a positive, like Simien, other players had to step up and this only made everyone else better.

June 29, 2007 at 1:28 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

BCRavenJHawkfan (anonymous) says...

Let's see just how Wright does the first year. I think he will have problems. Look at Wayne Simien in Miami, how much does he play? For my money Simien was more consistent and more fundamentally sound.

June 29, 2007 at 1:58 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

JRP (anonymous) says...

Like it was mentioned before, Julian Wright is guaranteed a few million dollars for himself. Guaranteed. How many people make that much over the course of their entire working career? Not many, I'm sure. The argument based on staying for another year or two, improving his shot and other aspects of his game, could have promised even double that. The argument that he could become injured early, possibly ending his basketball career, and not having completed a free degree is something that can happen as well. Which angle would you take? I'd like to think that with the millions I had earned, I could easily go back and pay for school, if I desired to. Obviously tuition wouldn't be much of a factor since I would have a few million dollars to my name. And for the injury aspect, what if he severely tore his ACL next year and had to sit out a season and be a high risk pick whenever his eligibility was up? I don't know what he's doing know, but, does anybody remember Curtis Sumpter from Villanova? I remember him being a sure fire lottery pick before he tore his ACL. If injury was a major factor in your decision, wouldn't you rather get a few million dollars and not risk that happening? Loyalty to your school and sticking around is a great trait to have in yourself, or in the team that you cheer for. But, when it comes down to your life, your decisions, what matters to you most, how can you chastise him for what he wants? Should we jump Bill Self for leaving two schools already in his career? He made the decisions for himself and his family. The things that mattered most to him. Were you guys there to yell at Phog Allen whenever he decided he wanted to retire? "I don't care if you have an IV in your arm, are bed-ridden, and have to have somebody else carry you to the bathroom!!! You get on that court and coach, coach, coach!!! For me, me, ME!!!!" Something like that if you can imagine. Whatever, it was his decision and it will be future Kansas players decisions for themselves and the ones that matter most to them in their lives. Let Julian Wright do what he wants to do.

June 29, 2007 at 2:01 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

cklarock (anonymous) says...

I'm glad to have had Julian for two years, and don't fault him even a bit for leaving when he felt the time was right.

A college degree is a fine thing, and I'm sure Julian will get his sooner than later, but I'd trade mine in a New York (or Chicago) minute for 12mil over the next four years.

Julian is a class athelete and a class person, and deserves all future success.

Come on Kansas fans, stop hating-- some of you sound like you put on your Kentucky blue underwear today.

June 29, 2007 at 2:25 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

KFoz (anonymous) says...

I may not be able to post any more comments as I realize I am using a computer that was initially designed by someone that dropped out of college. That Bill Gates guy will no longer get my support since he did not value education and I am throwing away my computer.

June 29, 2007 at 2:50 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

larkandtyler (anonymous) says...

I'm glad the pot is boiling, because this "KU becoming an NBA-D league" thing is my worst nightmare. I don't want to end up like USC. That's all I'm saying. It's a trend. There is no denying it, but a trend that can be stopped if caught early.

And as far as leaving college goes, I would trade my Junior and Senior years of school at KU for all the money in the world. Not only because of the education, but also the "life lessons". NBA contract. Please, those years were priceless, and i think most of my friends would agree. Jaybowl is priceless as a student, nostalgic as an alumni. JW will never get that college experience back now that he is in the real world. And that is sad. Priceless.

June 29, 2007 at 2:56 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

larkandtyler (anonymous) says...

i wasn't aware Bill Gates came out to the press and said, "I promise that i will return to school for my Junior year to complete my degree, 100%, no questions asked" before he dropped out. Good analogy.

June 29, 2007 at 3:15 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

tis4tim (anonymous) says...

Bill Gates can't go to his left.

June 29, 2007 at 3:18 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

digitalkookie (anonymous) says...

but he can fingerroll...hahahaha

June 29, 2007 at 3:22 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

Chicago_JHawk (anonymous) says...

What's with the references to USC? Have they been secretly churning out underclass lottery selections by the dozens that I'm unaware of? Besides, KU is no more a D-League than any of the other top tier college programs.

I loved my years at KU, and can't imagine not having spent the years that I did, but I could put a price on them ($3M would just about do it)...maybe that's because I never set foot in the Jaybowl, though.

June 29, 2007 at 3:35 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

larkandtyler (anonymous) says...

Here's Tim Floyd's pitch to Mayo...
Come to sunny Cali for a year, get some TV exposure, we'll have shoe deals already lined up for you when you get drafted next year. We'll even just run isolation plays for you, just like the NBA, so you'll be ready leave early. It's all set up, just come hang out for a year. You really don't have a choice since David Stern is denyiny you your constitutional right to earn a living.

Huggins could't have been much different to Beasley, just without the sun and more cows.

Not acceptable at KU.

June 29, 2007 at 3:45 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

JayCeph (anonymous) says...

I don't think anyone is really mad at Julian for leaving early to follow his dreams (and make the lottery!!).

I think what all the consternation is about is in regard to the promise to the media, the fans, and the school that he would stay 3 years and finish his degree. That gave people the impression that the team could build around something solid and place an emphasis on the little things that weren't already covered.

When he decided to leave early, it caught a lot of people with their emotional pants down and they didn't like being exposed. I was one of them.

I was/am disappointed he said those things but I'll still root for him at the next level. He was my favorite player the last two years. I hope he is wildly successful.

It's just that a lot of people have bruised emotions. They (we) will all get over it in time. Don't tell 'em to stop feeling the way they feel though. That's just silly.

June 29, 2007 at 3:51 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

KURUSH1530 (anonymous) says...

Julian's whole decision was not based on himself. Sure it's great he was earning a free education, but while that was happening, his family was in Chicago earning meager wages. He's not going to keep all that money himself. Wherever he went, JW was going to be sure he give back to the community because he knows there are countless others out there who won't make it due to basketball and will keep struggling in poor neighborhoods. Jaybowl? Hell, now he can put a bowling alley in his basement and invite all of his friends over. Priceless memories? I'm sure JW is going to hate being able to vacation at almost any destination in the world he wants now. Sorry you had to stick around all 4 years and High Schools around the nation don't hold drafts for science teachers. Mike Tirico-"What about larkandtyler's draft status??" Jay Bilas" Well he's slipping on a lot of boards right now because he lacks modern sense. He's still stuck in the 1980's". For someone who knows about evolution, you sure are lacking knowledge about evolution of a game called basketball (things change, for better or worse, whether you like it or not). I know one thing though, you won't be rooting for chalmers, collins, arthur and rush for the rest of there lives because they are underclassmen who will most likely move on before there 4 years is completed. And I lose a lot of respect for you about that.

June 29, 2007 at 5:29 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

JayhawkPhil (anonymous) says...

I am trying to determine whether larkandtyler just wrote the most offensive set of comments on this site ever or maybe the most ignorant. Maybe he and that guy who keeps asking "but is he a Christian" should get together. They seem like they are on the same intellectual level. As the famous old philosopher Bug Bunny once said, "What a couple of maroons!"

June 29, 2007 at 5:33 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

KUMatt2001 (anonymous) says...

Wow. I just came back after my post at 11 am hoping to read some interesting and thoughtful debate.

Instead, numerous echoes of the same opinions, bashing others' statements, littered with personal insults.

Everyone have a great weekend, I'm off to a happy hour!

June 29, 2007 at 5:55 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

esuyat (anonymous) says...

Way to go Ju Ju! Can't wait to watch you in the NBA.

June 29, 2007 at 7:56 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

GitS Christian Hinton says...

JayhawkPhil
Jaydub
Jross1972
Etc.

I'm with you guys. This was clearly the best decision for Julian, and to say otherwise is to be a spoiled, selfish KU fan.

larkandtyler

Cry me a river, build a bridge, and get over it.

June 29, 2007 at 9:43 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

Kirk (anonymous) says...

Under the current system -- and when the criterion is money now, then absolutely JW made the right decision.

But let's not turn colleges into 2-year NBA training camps. It doesn't benefit anyone, really.

Anyway. On the the final four. Kansas will be a better team without JW.

June 29, 2007 at 10:14 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

s6u6r6f (anonymous) says...

"Leaving early is not a reality at KU. How many players have left KU before their Junior year? Oh yeah...only JW."

Ever heard of Norm Cook?

Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the law. Go to college to get an education and a job. JW gets four to five million dollars to leave school early? Nice job! He changes his mind after new facts clarified a situation? Elect him president! And what is with all the argumentum ad hominem on this board?

June 30, 2007 at 3:02 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

jross1972 Joe Ross says...

Larkandtyler...

You were spared my having to engage you because Jayhawk Nation seems to have come to a reasonable consensus: we love Julian and respect his decision to go. As it should be.

No need for sour grapes. Be happy for the man and move forward with your life.

June 30, 2007 at 9:22 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

jross1972 Joe Ross says...

Or, listen to Coach Self and be educated:

"From my vantage point, I see it as a good business decision for Julian," Self said of Wright deciding to leave KU after two seasons. "Anytime you are a lottery pick : if you are mature enough and emotionally stable enough (to play in NBA), it's something where the risk (in returning to school) could outweigh the reward. I think he made the right choice for his family to leave.

June 30, 2007 at 9:25 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

voygr1 (anonymous) says...

Folks how about the greatest NBA success story of a KU player leaving early

wilt chamberlain

i would say he did pretty well

Glad you made it Julian best of everything for a true KU fan I know you will represent all of us well

June 30, 2007 at 10:01 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

justanotherfan (anonymous) says...

Me and jross on the same page?! Didn't happen much during the season, but apparently we (along with many other fans) share a reality that larkandtyler lacks.

Using the Florida guys as an example of what happens when you stay in school is a poor example. Noah, Green and Horford were all from financially secure families because their fathers were all professional athletes. In fact, the conversation when they decided to stay was that they were somewhat uncomfortable with possibly putting pressure on Corey Brewer (who was from a low income working class family) to pass up lottery money that he could use to help his family (his father has advanced diabetes) to stay at Florida. Julian came from a background more similar to Brewer than Green, Horford and Noah. For Julian's family, him going lottery this year means a better life for all of them - education, opportunities, better houses, safer neighborhoods, etc.

I remember when Larry Hughes left SLU. He left school after his freshman year because he could use the money from being drafted for medical care for his brother, who had a rare disease (his brother has since passed away). Nonetheless, because Hughes left school early his brother got four or five more years with the family. SLU fans would have been completely in the wrong to criticize him then and frankly, larkandtyler, you are completely wrong for poopooing Julian's decision to 1) achieve a lifelong dream and 2) help his family and others that he cares about get a better life.

Apparently your KU education gave you lots of book knowledge but not an ounce of common sense.

June 30, 2007 at 1:32 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

seattlehawk_78 (anonymous) says...

Actually I do remember Norm Cook. He turned out to be a bust for the Celtics.

July 1, 2007 at 1:24 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

jross1972 Joe Ross says...

larkandtyler...

RE:

"leaving early is not a reality at KU"

Buckle up, it's gonna be. This is a phenomenon in NCAA basketball and the trend is inevitable. Kansas will not be immune from it.

I've seen you post about Julian forsaking his education in favor of money. Blather! Education in America is not accomplished for education's sake: it is a means to an end. A good education portends a great job. Just because Julian passes "GO" and gets to keep the $200 (er...7 million) why should you be begruding of the fact? Senselessness if you ask me. Your thinly-veiled gripe is that he left early and now you have negativity to bring. You almost seem to be arguing that Julian should have foregone the league so he and the Big Bully could stake their claim to greatness at Jaybowl.

Time to live in the real world.

congrats julian!

July 1, 2007 at 11:37 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

GitS Christian Hinton says...

'Nuff said.

July 1, 2007 at 10:29 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

RonBurgandy (anonymous) says...

Whoopdeedo. Julian who?

July 3, 2007 at 9:50 a.m. ( | suggest removal )