Kyrie Irving and Tristan Thompson opt for college instead of joining foreign leagues: NBA News
Cleveland Cavaliers recent 1st overall selection Kyrie Irving and No. 4 first round pick Tristan Thompson have decided to carry forward their studies during this lockout, instead of playing abroad. The two seem to have
made the right decision, as not only will they be able to complete their credits, but it will also obliterate any chances of their injuries, they could have sustained while playing in the international leagues.
Injury even before the start of the National Basketball Association regular-season could have put the careers of these two in serious jeopardy. Thompson explained the reason why he decided to head back to the University of Texas:
"My mom (Andrea) told me if you're going to leave school to go to the draft, and there is a lockout, I need you to go back to school and continue on with your degree," Thompson said in a telephone interview. "I was all for it.
You can't say no to your mom."
The two rookies are considered as the core on which the future of the Cavs will be built. Their induction in last year’s draft was considered as the fire step towards rebuilding after LeBron James left the franchise in tatters.
The Cavs therefore will certainly welcome the decision.
Irving, whose scoring average with the Duke Blue Devils was 17.5 points, 3.4 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game in the 2010-11 season, while Thompson had maintained a record of 13.1 points and 7. 8 rebounds in the capacity of a
forward with the Texas Longhorns will carry on to practice with their respective teams amid lockout. They however cannot participate in the National Collegiate Athleticism Association level because of their pro status.
The move also allows the two youngsters enough time to evaluate the lockout situation and if the disagreement between the players union and the NBA owners wipes out the entire NBA season, the duo can then make their international
moves.
Several players have already signed contracts with international teams that wouldn’t just earn them good money during the lockout, but also have an out-clause that will allow them to return to the States whenever the lockout ends.
Hopefully the decision made by the two young talents remain positive for them and the lockout gets over quickly, as fans are now getting eager to watch their favourite players in action soon, especially after the summer league was lost due to work stoppage.
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