It’s American Idol, basketball style.
This Wednesday at Coleman Coliseum practice gym on the campus of the University of Alabama, more than 30 NBA scouts watched as the Crimson Tide basketball team went through drills, game situations, and an inter-squad scrimmage as part of the second-annual Pro Day.
“It was an amazing event,” Alabama head coach Avery Johnson said. “This is significantly important, because players on our team who aspire to have a professional career in basketball have the chance to showcase their talents.”
Pro Day brings the feel of a combine tocampus, as during the two-hour work out, scouts evaluate players to determine if they have pro potential. Before the practice, players go through a series of tests that measure vertical jump, bench press, reach, sprint time, and agility.
“Since this is our second annual pro day, our returners have the chance to show how they have improved with their bodies, the mental part of the game, and their stamina,” Johnson said. “It is a great way to showcase our student-athletes and help them get some great exposure in front of some NBA scouts that were on hand today. We prepared ourselves by trying to play our game and not over doing it. Do what you do and do it to the best of your abilities.”
Other SEC schools that participated in Pro Day 2018 include Auburn, Kentucky, and Vanderbilt.
Kentucky’s Pro Day, held at Rupp Arena, was televised by the SEC Network. H&A
All photos courtesy Alabama Athletics.
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