Thinking of center Ryan Hollins as an NBA draftable player six months ago was laughable.He wasn’t a starter at UCLA, looked lost offensively and overmatched defensively.
But once UCLA coach Ben Howland figured out how to best utilize the athletic Hollins, his play improved drastically and his stock soared.
If Hollins, who was a senior last season, had been able to play another year in college, perhaps he could have worked his way into the first round of the draft next year. Still, Hollins was thrilled to be selected by Michael Jordan and the Charlotte Bobcats in the second round with the 50th overall pick of the NBA draft Wednesday. He became the 100th UCLA player drafted all-time.
“When you drop down the board, it’s like you’re sitting on pins and needles,” Hollins said. “You get a little nervous. Charlotte told me they liked me but didn’t think I’d be available at No. 50. But when you see your name on the board, it’s just joyous.”
LA Daily News – Rise continues for Hollins
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