Jakarr Declaring?

Are we sure it is the nba draft and not the army? This is a dumb move. Hope he doesn't hire an agent.
Click to expand...

He said he was hiring agent. It's done. Next shoe to drop?
Click to expand...

If there is ever a year for things to drop...it's this one. We can add a better starting five wiith immediately eligible transfers than we had this season. Give me Jordan and Harrison....Obekpa would be great too. The rest can go.
 
http://www.redstormsports.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/032414aaa.html


March 24, 2014

Sophomore Forward JaKarr Sampson

On deciding to turn professional:

“It has been my lifelong dream to play in the NBA, and I am excited and ready to begin that journey. I am grateful to my teammates and coaches at St. John’s. I would like to thank Coach Lavin, our staff and my teammates for being there for me throughout my whole career at SJU. We have been through a lot together and I know everyone is excited for me.”

On where in the NBA Draft he expects to be chosen:

“I have been advised that I may be selected between the late first and mid-second round, but the important thing is I am in the mix and I know I can earn my way up the draft board.”

On why he’s not returning to St. John’s for one more year in an attempt to become a guaranteed first round pick or lottery selection:

“Playing in the NBA has always been a lifelong dream of mine. I know I have a long road ahead and hard work to do still, but I feel like the chance to pursue my dream is available right now.”

On how long he’s known this is the route he would take:

“After conversations with my family and Coach Lavin, I arrived at the decision. At the end of my freshman year I went through the NBA’s underclassman process and spoke with league officials like Stu Jackson. After I made the decision to return to school I didn’t want to think about it during this past season. I really tried to stay in the present throughout the year.

On the biggest factor in his decision:

“This wasn't a quick decision, but it’s been something I’ve been considering for more than a year. I took my time and spoke with key people. After evaluating all of my options, I decided to continue to reach for my NBA dream. My ultimate dream is to not just reach the NBA, but to stay there. I want to stay for a long time and make a career out of it. Right now it’s close. It’s reachable.”

On his St. John's experience:

“I have enjoyed my time at St. John's, and I want to thank the coaching staff and all of my teammates for the great experience I had in my time in Queens. I would also like to thank the fans at St. John’s and everyone who has supported me throughout my career so far.”

On how his teammates reacted to the news:

“There were a lot of mixed emotions when I told them. They were excited, but it's bittersweet. There's a lot of talent on this team, and they'll do big things next year. I think we’ll all keep working hard, and many of us may get the opportunity to play in the league together.“

On the positional role he hopes to play on a NBA team:

“I’ll be in the gym all offseason and can hopefully work on polishing both my perimeter and post-up skills as an athletic wing. No matter what position or role, I will be happy to contribute any way I can.”

On observations about similar-type players to him in the D-League:

“Coach Lavin and my support group have helped me conduct research and the information gathered indicates that with hard work, I have a chance to improve my stock and play in the NBA next year. I will work hard and prove myself in every workout. I know I can impress upon GMs and coaches that I am ready be a contributor to a NBA team.”

On the challenges of the 2013-14 St. John’s basketball season:

“We were all disappointed that we didn’t reach our goal of playing in the NCAA Tournament. I think my teammates and St. John’s will have a great season next year. I really enjoyed my St. John’s experience with my teammates and our coaching staff. I just feel it’s time for me to take the next step.”

On what he’ll be working on most between now and the draft to get ready for the NBA:

“I’ll be working out with pro trainers and strength coaches, likely in Akron, Miami and Las Vegas. I definitely want to get stronger and work on my jumper to improve my game on the perimeter. I’m really looking to locking in on improving.”

On his family's support of his decision:

“They were very supportive of whatever decision I made. My mother and I want me to finish school. I will work with my professors and [St. John’s Student Development coordinator] Eric Rienecker to complete the semester in good standing and will look to come back during my offseasons and finish my degree in liberal studies.

On the difficulty of leaving St. John's and his teammates:

“It’s very difficult. We’ve all developed a family bond over the year. My teammates are like my brothers. It’s hard, but I have to be ready to move on. They’re happy for me and that’s what matters.”

On whether he is “testing the waters”:

“I am fully committed to the decision to turn professional. I plan to hire an agent soon.”

On the NBA player(s) he's often compared to:

“Because of my length, athletic ability and skill set, I've heard a lot of comparisons to Paul George. That’s the main one.”

On ultimately measuring his success as a professional:

“I will be able to look back at this and let you know in a few years. I can say right now that I am happy and confident with this decision, and 100 percent committed to making myself the best professional basketball player I can be.”
Click to expand...


I would love to know what NBA GM's are telling him that he is projected to be a late 1st round-mid 2nd round player. I feel like it's a bad decision but I can't be mad at him for making it, if he somehow gets picked I will be ecstatic for him. Good luck Karr!!
 
Are we sure it is the nba draft and not the army? This is a dumb move. Hope he doesn't hire an agent.
Click to expand...

He might have a better chance being drafted by the army (when it comes to this upcoming NBA draft).

I think one more offseason of work and on the floor with the Johnnies would certainly improve his stock.
Click to expand...

Hate to say it, but he may realize he is not getting better here & needs to take a different approach. I agree with post above however.
 
He will not make an NBA team. There are at least 30 players in the D-League that are more developed than Jakarr. He is not even one of the top 40 players in college basketball.

Who is advising this kid?

Thank God we have a Super Recruiter who undoubtedly has us covered for 2014. After all no recruiter of Lavin's stature would be holding three unused scholarships in March while his second best player walks out the door.
 
I'd give Hooper his minutes, at least he can shoot.
Click to expand...

Hooper is a one dimensional player. Role player at best.
Click to expand...

I see guys like Hooper playing significant roles for a number of teams in the NCAA tournament.
 
http://www.redstormsports.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/032414aaa.html

On where in the NBA Draft he expects to be chosen:

“I have been advised that I may be selected between the late first and mid-second round, but the important thing is I am in the mix and I know I can earn my way up the draft board.”
Click to expand...

Talk about getting bad information from his "handlers." Not only is he NOT projected on any draft boards, but it's common knowledge that most 2nd rounders do not make it in the NBA and there's no guarantee of money. Wondering if kids are starting to get the impression that the NBA Development League is better than college. He's not even listed on NBADraft.net top 100 players, and deservedly so. He has a lot more to prove.
 
Hope this doesn't negatively impact De La Rosa's upcoming decision. If anything, we need his size more than ever.
 
Are we sure it is the nba draft and not the army? This is a dumb move. Hope he doesn't hire an agent.
Click to expand...

He might have a better chance being drafted by the army (when it comes to this upcoming NBA draft).

I think one more offseason of work and on the floor with the Johnnies would certainly improve his stock.
Click to expand...

Hate to say it, but he may realize he is not getting better here & needs to take a different approach. I agree with post above however.
Click to expand...

Whose fault is that though? He certainly needed to bulk up and hasn't done so.
 
Hope this doesn't negatively impact De La Rosa's upcoming decision. If anything, we need his size more than ever.
Click to expand...

Nah, it isn't gonna hurt us. We're certainly gonna need his size and rebounding.

I hope our guards are doing lots of planking. 'Cause they are gonna need strong backs to carry this team. Still some time left to get in on transfers and kids who get out of prior commitments.
 
http://www.redstormsports.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/032414aaa.html

On where in the NBA Draft he expects to be chosen:

“I have been advised that I may be selected between the late first and mid-second round, but the important thing is I am in the mix and I know I can earn my way up the draft board.”
Click to expand...

Talk about getting bad information from his "handlers." Not only is he NOT projected on any draft boards, but it's common knowledge that most 2nd rounders do not make it in the NBA and there's no guarantee of money. Wondering if kids are starting to get the impression that the NBA Development League is better than college. He's not even listed on NBADraft.net top 100 players, and deservedly so. He has a lot more to prove.
Click to expand...

To be fair he is not going of draft boards and neither should we. I'm sure him, his family and Lavin have done much more intensive research than just going on google and looking up mock drafts.
I'm curious if his decision will have an effect on guys like Rysheed and Chris.
 
Are we sure it is the nba draft and not the army? This is a dumb move. Hope he doesn't hire an agent.
Click to expand...

He might have a better chance being drafted by the army (when it comes to this upcoming NBA draft).

I think one more offseason of work and on the floor with the Johnnies would certainly improve his stock.
Click to expand...

Hate to say it, but he may realize he is not getting better here & needs to take a different approach. I agree with post above however.
Click to expand...

Whose fault is that though? He certainly needed to bulk up and hasn't done so.
Click to expand...

Not a matter of "fault", it is simply what the player & his advisors think. I worried about our vulnerability with the big men & it now appears we have a real challenge. Losing Karr & Sanchez is not easily solved obviously. Our motto seems to be one step forward, two steps back. Just venting!
 
Are we sure it is the nba draft and not the army? This is a dumb move. Hope he doesn't hire an agent.
Click to expand...

He might have a better chance being drafted by the army (when it comes to this upcoming NBA draft).

I think one more offseason of work and on the floor with the Johnnies would certainly improve his stock.
Click to expand...

Hate to say it, but he may realize he is not getting better here & needs to take a different approach. I agree with post above however.
Click to expand...

Whose fault is that though? He certainly needed to bulk up and hasn't done so.
Click to expand...

Yep.

Frankly, I think he's in a rush like so, many kids who tend to leave early. I wish him luck, nonetheless
 
Are we sure it is the nba draft and not the army? This is a dumb move. Hope he doesn't hire an agent.
Click to expand...

He said he was hiring agent. It's done. Next shoe to drop?
Click to expand...

If there is ever a year for things to drop...it's this one. We can add a better starting five wiith immediately eligible transfers than we had this season. Give me Jordan and Harrison....Obekpa would be great too. The rest can go.
Click to expand...

I am fine with Jordan, Harrison and Branch and my obvious love of Hooper's shooting skills. Its the rest of them that scare me. Pointer (your favorite); Greene(Lavin's favorite);Balamou and Jones(both complete unknowns) and Obekpa(needs to get better). I hope Lavin pulls some miracles out the next few weeks.

More importantly, I wish Sampson the best. He played hard although not smart and wanted to win. He was a good teammate. His play was very average for someone who wants to play in the NBA but who knows.
 
http://www.redstormsports.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/032414aaa.html

On where in the NBA Draft he expects to be chosen:

“I have been advised that I may be selected between the late first and mid-second round, but the important thing is I am in the mix and I know I can earn my way up the draft board.”
Click to expand...

Talk about getting bad information from his "handlers." Not only is he NOT projected on any draft boards, but it's common knowledge that most 2nd rounders do not make it in the NBA and there's no guarantee of money. Wondering if kids are starting to get the impression that the NBA Development League is better than college. He's not even listed on NBADraft.net top 100 players, and deservedly so. He has a lot more to prove.
Click to expand...

To be fair he is not going of draft boards and neither should we. I'm sure him, his family and Lavin have done much more intensive research than just going on google and looking up mock drafts.
I'm curious if his decision will have an effect on guys like Rysheed and Chris.
Click to expand...

I'm not saying you're wrong, but these sites do this for a living, and are usually very close when all is said and done. But that's besides the point. Have there been NBA scouts at our games this season looking at Jakarr? Maybe big brother LeBron is in his ear....
 
I firmly believe that anyone that has an opportunity to seek a professional dream should be afforded that chance, so best of luck JaKarr! I have sincere doubts about his chances at being drafted but not that much more than Lance Stevenson (though this class is far more loaded). I'm a little relieved about this choice however as Karr has played with a "show my mid range game" style rather than the "best play this possession" you'd hoped from a player that is essentially a junior. Nonetheless, go luck!
 
http://www.redstormsports.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/032414aaa.html


March 24, 2014

Sophomore Forward JaKarr Sampson

On deciding to turn professional:

“It has been my lifelong dream to play in the NBA, and I am excited and ready to begin that journey. I am grateful to my teammates and coaches at St. John’s. I would like to thank Coach Lavin, our staff and my teammates for being there for me throughout my whole career at SJU. We have been through a lot together and I know everyone is excited for me.”

On where in the NBA Draft he expects to be chosen:

“I have been advised that I may be selected between the late first and mid-second round, but the important thing is I am in the mix and I know I can earn my way up the draft board.”

On why he’s not returning to St. John’s for one more year in an attempt to become a guaranteed first round pick or lottery selection:

“Playing in the NBA has always been a lifelong dream of mine. I know I have a long road ahead and hard work to do still, but I feel like the chance to pursue my dream is available right now.”

On how long he’s known this is the route he would take:

“After conversations with my family and Coach Lavin, I arrived at the decision. At the end of my freshman year I went through the NBA’s underclassman process and spoke with league officials like Stu Jackson. After I made the decision to return to school I didn’t want to think about it during this past season. I really tried to stay in the present throughout the year.

On the biggest factor in his decision:

“This wasn't a quick decision, but it’s been something I’ve been considering for more than a year. I took my time and spoke with key people. After evaluating all of my options, I decided to continue to reach for my NBA dream. My ultimate dream is to not just reach the NBA, but to stay there. I want to stay for a long time and make a career out of it. Right now it’s close. It’s reachable.”

On his St. John's experience:

“I have enjoyed my time at St. John's, and I want to thank the coaching staff and all of my teammates for the great experience I had in my time in Queens. I would also like to thank the fans at St. John’s and everyone who has supported me throughout my career so far.”

On how his teammates reacted to the news:

“There were a lot of mixed emotions when I told them. They were excited, but it's bittersweet. There's a lot of talent on this team, and they'll do big things next year. I think we’ll all keep working hard, and many of us may get the opportunity to play in the league together.“

On the positional role he hopes to play on a NBA team:

“I’ll be in the gym all offseason and can hopefully work on polishing both my perimeter and post-up skills as an athletic wing. No matter what position or role, I will be happy to contribute any way I can.”

On observations about similar-type players to him in the D-League:

“Coach Lavin and my support group have helped me conduct research and the information gathered indicates that with hard work, I have a chance to improve my stock and play in the NBA next year. I will work hard and prove myself in every workout. I know I can impress upon GMs and coaches that I am ready be a contributor to a NBA team.”

On the challenges of the 2013-14 St. John’s basketball season:

“We were all disappointed that we didn’t reach our goal of playing in the NCAA Tournament. I think my teammates and St. John’s will have a great season next year. I really enjoyed my St. John’s experience with my teammates and our coaching staff. I just feel it’s time for me to take the next step.”

On what he’ll be working on most between now and the draft to get ready for the NBA:

“I’ll be working out with pro trainers and strength coaches, likely in Akron, Miami and Las Vegas. I definitely want to get stronger and work on my jumper to improve my game on the perimeter. I’m really looking to locking in on improving.”

On his family's support of his decision:

“They were very supportive of whatever decision I made. My mother and I want me to finish school. I will work with my professors and [St. John’s Student Development coordinator] Eric Rienecker to complete the semester in good standing and will look to come back during my offseasons and finish my degree in liberal studies.

On the difficulty of leaving St. John's and his teammates:

“It’s very difficult. We’ve all developed a family bond over the year. My teammates are like my brothers. It’s hard, but I have to be ready to move on. They’re happy for me and that’s what matters.”

On whether he is “testing the waters”:

“I am fully committed to the decision to turn professional. I plan to hire an agent soon.”

On the NBA player(s) he's often compared to:

“Because of my length, athletic ability and skill set, I've heard a lot of comparisons to Paul George. That’s the main one.”

On ultimately measuring his success as a professional:

“I will be able to look back at this and let you know in a few years. I can say right now that I am happy and confident with this decision, and 100 percent committed to making myself the best professional basketball player I can be.”
Click to expand...

Jakarr seems like a really nice, happy go lucky kid who always has a smile on his face
I have enjoyed watching him play at St John's for the past two seasons
Having said that, right now, he is more like Boy George than Paul George
Jakarr is being fed very poor advice IMO
He is not NBA ready right now
 
Anyone have Omar's cell # to give to JaKarr? This is beyond ridiculous. He is making a huge mistake.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top