Jordan Loveridge works out for Utah Jazz in 1st post-collegiate workout


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SALT LAKE CITY — West Jordan native and former University of Utah forward Jordan Loveridge got an opportunity to workout for his hometown NBA team Wednesday.

Loveridge said the workout with the Utah Jazz was harder than expected, but felt he did well in showcasing his skills before NBA coaches and executives.

“Everyone says that it’s tough, and it really is.” Loveridge said. “It’s tough. These guys are at a whole different level, even from college. You get to work so hard and you’ve got to take your hat off to the guys that make it into the NBA.”

Jazz Vice President of Player Personnel Walt Perrin said he was surprised with how well Loveridge shot it in the workout, particularly when adjusting for the deeper 3-point line in the NBA. Perrin added, though, that Loveridge’s shot was “flat” and needed more lift to begin competing at a professional level.

“I think with his shooting, he shot the ball pretty well from the three,” Perrin said. “I thought he might have struggled a bit more than he did today with the NBA three.

“He still has somewhat of a hesitation in his shot, and it’s kind of, as I said before, it was a little flat,” Perrin added. “ It’s either going in or it’s not. He doesn’t get any bounce around the basket, so I think if he raises his elevation in terms of his release point, maybe it becomes a little softer.”

Although pleased with his overall workout, Perrin said Loveridge needed to work on many areas of his game and that he needed to be conditioned better, particularly in Utah where he should have an advantage.

“First and foremost he’s got to get in better shape, and I’ve told his coaches that,” Perrin said. “I don’t think he was in great shape for a kid from Salt Lake of from anywhere in Utah because of the altitude. He’s got to get his body in better shape.”

The workout is the first for Loveridge. Because it’s still early, he said he has no other workouts planned as of now. Although his post-collegiate basketball career is uncertain, either the NBA’s Developmental League or overseas in international basketball is options he’s willing to entertain.

“I think it would just be whatever’s the best situation for me,” Loveridge said. “Just like how it was when I chose to go to Utah. I feel like that was the best decision for me and it worked out, so hopefully I can make another good decision moving forward and be in a good spot.”

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