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SALT LAKE CITY - Never has a pre-draft workout none of us could even watch generate so much juice around here. Jimmer finally worked out for the Jazz, even though they know all about the things he can and can't do. Still, being part of a Jimmer event is an experience for everyone involved.
Utah Jazz head coach Tyrone Corbin said, "There's a lot more of you guys here at this workout." Right he was. There were season ticket holders gawking from upstairs of Zions Bank Basketball Center. Fredette's old coach Dave Rose was there watching, and then the media - all of the media.
Jimmer is certainly used to all of this. "I knew this was going to happen, I knew that people were very interested about this workout, wanted to know about it, and see how things went, I am not surprised, I am glad you guys came though."
Among all of the people were the decision makers, the draft team, and they were eying everything Jimmer did, and what made this uber juicy? UConn's point guard Kemba Walker was there too. Jazz Vice President of Basketball Operations Kevin O'Connor seemed thrilled to have both players here at the same workout. "The two most recognizable names in college basketball were here today, it was fun to have them here."
Kemba Walker led the Connecticut Huskies to the national championship and was here now to battle Jimmer for draft position and enjoy the atmosphere. When asked if this was a typical pre-draft workout atmosphere, Walker said, "No. This is definitely the most people I have had in my (workouts), as far as media, and I applaud Jimmer for that."
Jimmer continued, saying, "Obviously many are here watching and participating so it is a little more hyped up than some of the other ones maybe. I have played in front of a lot of fans and done this a long time and I think Kemba has as well so it doesn't really bother us at this point, we just go out and play our game and have fun and show them what we can do."
So now the multimillion dollar question is will the Jazz take Jimmer at number 12 if he is still on the board?
O'Connor cautioned the media, "Just remember that everyone lies," as he smirked and laughed. "I have no comment rather than lie."
