Nike Desert Classic Notes

[j.hironaka@unesco.org]

    Below is a scouting report from the Nike Desert Classic copyright
NBA.COM . Although it is only the first night of scrimmages, it appears
that our "local yokel" Wayne Turner is playing quite well. Xavier's
Lenny Brown is another pointguard who is getting noticed. Some of the
"marquee" participants this year who so far are not mentioned for praise
below include AJ Bramlett, Vonteego Cummings, Chris Herren, Lari Ketner,
Arthur Lee, Melvin Levett, Terrell McIntyre, BJ McKie, Lee Nailon,
Ademola Okulaja, James Posey, Shawnta Rodgers, Jamel Thomas, Tim Young.
___________________________

NIKE DESERT CLASSIC NOTES
By Chris Ekstrand

The players received instruction from coaches, learned a few basic
offensive sets, performed drills and then scrimmaged under the watchful
eyes of the gathered NBA braintrusts. A few players stood out during the
scrimmages, including:

Quincy Lewis, Forward, Minnesota - His picture-perfect perimeter shot
was on display, as he hit nothing but net from 20 feet on several jump
shots.

Lenny Brown, Guard, Xavier - After earning his way into the tournament
with fine  performances at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament, he
continued to show a good jump shot and floor generalship running his
team.

Laron Profit, Guard, Maryland - He was very active on defense, playing
passing lanes well and getting several steals.

Francisco Elson, Center, California - Although he is one of the least
experienced players here, the seven-footer showed an effective hook shot
and the ability to deny the pass into the post.

Wayne Turner, Guard, Kentucky - This high-energy point guard made all
the plays defensively, showing great hustle and desire.

Heshimu Evans, Forward, Kentucky - Made several eye-catching passes on
the break, giving his teammates easy baskets. Also a good finisher when
he keeps it on the break.

Scott Padgett, Forward, Kentucky - Known more as being an excellent
outside shooter for a big man, Padgett got himself noticed by blocking
shots and stripping the ball from opposing big men in a standout
defensive effort.

Casey Frank, Forward, Northern Arizona - Showed off excellent leaping
ability in blocking shots and getting offensive rebounds above the rim.
Not one of the better-known players here, so making a mark the first
night helps him.