Thursday, March 22, 2012

Iowa State's Royce White Declares for the NBA

The Iowa State men’s basketball team rarely has a ‘one and done’ player, but the Cyclones have one this year in Royce White.

White said yesterday at a press conference that he would enter the NBA Draft. He added that Iowa State coach Fred Hoiberg basically told him to go. Hoiberg was an NBA player and executive.

White’s stock rose in the NCAA Tournament. He performed well in games against UCONN and Kentucky. He scored 23 points again the Wildcats before fouling out.

According to draft experts, White is projected as middle to late first round pick. White played point forward for Iowa State. I doubt if he will play that position in the pros. White is not your typical power forward with soft hands and strong ball-handling skills.

I am somewhat surprised Cyclone fans are taking White’s news so well. Was it because he helped Iowa State become a national conversation again and help lead them back to the NCAA tournament?

White will definitely have two challenges in the NBA. Can he become a better than 50 percent free throw shooter and can he overcome the fear of flying?

Cyclone fans hope White will pass both tests.

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