NBA Draft: Darius Washington Diary

NBA Draft: Darius Washington Diary

Entry #1 - Wednesday, June 7, 2006

I’ve been really busy since I decided to enter the draft. I was really lucky to be able to spend a week with Coach Lucas in Houston who I really admire and then got to spend a couple weeks at the IMG Academy in Bradenton. Doing everything from practicing drills, shooting, lifting, reviewing tape, listening to my trainers and learning as much as I can before the draft. I am happy to have my family close because at times it can be stressful. I am just trying to keep my head on straight and focus on the coming weeks. At the end of the day I am like anyone else entering the draft—I have to prove myself and show everyone that I am willing to do more than the next guy to make it.

Q & A

Q: When will you decide if you are staying in the draft for good or pulling out? And, what factors will help you determine what you do?

A: I did not enter my name in the draft to test the waters. I am working really hard for the draft and as long as my coaches and advisors support my decision I will continue. It was my decision to enter the draft and it is my job now to show everyone that I can and will do it.

Q: What do you think about your teammate Shawne Williams hiring an agent and staying the draft?

A: Shawne is doing what he feels is best for his situation and I wish him well.

Q: How has the training and preparation for the draft financially affected you?

A: I’m lucky because I have the support of my family. I don’t know how much my parents have spent but I know they both sacrificed a lot for me in order for me to fulfill my quest to play professionally and always have.

Q: Some mock drafts have you projected as a 2nd round pick—what do you think about this?

A: I think that a lot can happen in the next couple weeks—only time will tell.

Check back soon for another Darius Washington Diary entry.