Best Big 12 Player Drafted #24: Damion James, Texas Longhorns, by the Atlanta Hawks in 2010.
Despite being feared in Big 12 play two seasons ago, James didn't have as big of an impact on the NBA in his rookie campaign. Though he started nine games for the New Jersey Nets, he averaged only a pair of buckets per context.
Other Notable Big 12 Players Drafted 24th: None.
Best Non-Big 12 Player Drafted 24th: Delonte West, St. Joseph's Hakws, by the Boston Celtics in 2004.
Imagine bellying up to a bar one day and a goofy looking 6'4 guy sits next to you. You have a few drinks and he starts rattling off stories. First he tells you he slept with the mom of the best basketball player in the world. Then he tells you he once was pulled over riding a three-wheel motorcycle... and strapped to his back -- n a guitar case -- were three guns "for protection." Would you a) cast him aside as another drunk local or b) say "Hey Delonte!"
The correct answer is (b).
In preparation for the 2011 NBA Draft, each day until June 23 we'll count down the best Big 12 player drafted with each pick. This list only takes into account players who played in the Big 12, so it starts with the 1997 draft. In total 70 Big 12 alumni have been selected, filling 43 of the 60 possible slots.
Follow Big 12 Hoops on Twitter @bigXIIhoops
LIKE Big 12 Hoops on Facebook
Loading comments...