The hottest news on the Prep, College, and Professional scene this weekend was, and still is, the possibility of All World Point Guard Brandon Jennings de-committing from his national letter of intent with the University of Arizona Wildcats, and taking his talents across the pond to Europe.
“For a person that plays ball, our dream is to get to the NBA,” Jennings said. “College is like, Okay. We’ll do this one year, but our real mind-set is that we’re trying to get to the league, take care of our families. They’re making us do college so we feel like, Let’s do one year, go to class half the time.”
Dozens of critics will, and have said this would not be in the best interest of Jennings, and have stated that European ball is production driven— with less concern with player development.
Now this topic comes to life due to the SAT scores that have Jennings weighing his options. The first time he took the test he did not meet the requirements, so he obviously had to take it over again.
When the scores came back from the second test he had meet the requirements, but since the scores differed so much he was red flagged and told to take the test a third time.
So, while Mr. Jennings and the rest of the world wait for his S.A.T scores, Jennings will be considering what’s best for him and his family.
Now, my impression of this young man, is that he knows what he's doing, and has the type of support that most high profile athletes lack. I've watched Brandon play since his sophomore year, and have had the chance to sit down with him at the McDonald's All American game, and the Jordan Brand Classic for several interviews.
The kid has what it takes mentally, and there's no doubt that he's driven to be great!
The physical aspect, and the focus on his personal development are areas of concern, but if he is as dedicated to being great like I suspect he is, European leagues better watch out!
This whole process might really affect the college ranks, but could in turn be a major benefit for those high profile athletes coming out of high school who need to make a living for their families.
“I think people just develop better over there,” Jennings said. “You’re playing professional ball for a year, you’re playing against guys who are older than you. I’ll constantly be playing basketball 24-7. I don’t have to worry about school and things like that.”
Reference: Quotes from WILLIAM C. RHODEN New York Times Article.
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3 months ago
Great job man, really nice to have an inside look at things and actually have sit downs and get into these guys minds. If he goes, it will be a really mature decision for such a young man, but probably a smart one if he doesn't want to be in college. Keep up the good work!
3 months ago
I think the rest of the Pac-10 wouldn't mind Mr. Jennings heading off to Europe, but I really feel it is in his best interest to adapt to the American game at the collegiate level before making the jump to the NBA instead of the softer, more perimeter oriented one overseas.
3 months ago
I agree with you on one hand, but on the other. Brandon has played tough ball from the time he came on the scene. From playing High school ball in Los Angeles, to Oak Hill academy and playing the best in the nation. Also he played in intense talent driving AAU tournaments since he was little. Also let’s not forget, if he was projected to go to the league after one season at U of A, with not one person disagreeing that he could make such a jump, and then one year in Europe won’t diminish his skills at all! Plus with the money he'll be making hopefully he'll hire a trainer, and strength coach to help with what the Euro league will be lacking in player development. (Footnote: if he goes, he's considering playing in Italy)
from 3 months ago
I would think that Jennings may be better served in Europe. In college the advertising dollars given to universities for having athletes like a Brandon Jennings is large. This benefits the university and not the athlete. In this day of "one and done" the only thing the NCAA is good for is exposure with all of the t.v. contracts it gives out to the networks (ESPN, CBS,etc). This is a showcase for the athletes' talent. If Jennings does go to Europe he'll be a trendsetter in my opinion. If enough high school talent jumps the pond and starts playing one year overseas then the networks would have no choice but to broadcast the European games as the collegiate talent pool would dwindle in following years.
As for the debate of get the education: while it is advisable to get a degree the athletes that are coming out (Eric Gordon, Bayless, Mayo) are only in college to play hoop. Seldom do they go to class as there is no incentive to go so why not go to Europe and make a little money and start providing for their families? It would take a few years of high schoolers going to Europe to make an impact but it only takes one to start a trend. The NBA will find talent regardless of where it's located. College is a great time but most of these young men are only interested in getting to the league. They aren't interested in who authored "The Grapes of Wrath".
Dreday
3 months ago
To add to what's happened he is leaning toward Europe as of today; some developing news coming in today:
"Brandon Jennings is getting fed up and that may lead him to continue his basketball career overseas. Jennings, the nation's top-ranked player in the ESPN 150 who graduated from Oak Hill Academy (Va.) last month, is considering skipping college for a professional career in Europe if he falls short of the necessary SAT score. He also hasn't ruled out bolting even if he does make the grade. "It would take a perfect situation," Jennings said. "I need a team that needs a point guard, a coach who would take the time to work with me, an American on the team who could show me the ropes and playing time to show off my game."
-From Hoopshype.com
If he starts naming European teams its all over.
3 months ago
He is doing the best thing for himself and family. I hope more players follow him. Then maybe the NCAA and BCF will be eliminated Why can we take Europeans players who are 18 and 19 to come to the NBA make money but our players have to wait. Hey making $200.000 a year in Europe is better than playing for free in some college.If he was not a high profile player no major institution would be knocking on his door. Brandon go for yours!! Good Luck!!
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