Lakers Draft Joe Crawford

With the 58th pick in the 2008 NBA Draft, the Lakers selected Joe Crawford.

Crawford is a 6′5″, 207 pound guard form Kentucky. In his senior season he averaged 17.9 points per game while shooting 36.4% from three-point range.

Crawford was 2nd team All-SEC and is the #19 scorer Kentucky with 1,438 points.

His hometown is Detroit, Michigan and attended Renaissance High School.

Joe Crawford on being selected by the Lakers: “When this day started, I was really nervous. To go to one of my favorite teams, to be in LA, it’s a feeling I can’t explain.”

Mitch Kupchak on the draft selection:

“We had him projected to be drafted a lot higher than 58. He comes from a top-rate basketball program, used to playing in big games. Good competition in their conference. He had a great career.

“It goes without saying statistically that once three-quarters of the draft goes by, when you get to be about 45 or so, those players struggle to make a roster. If they make a roster, it’s likely that they won’t contribute much, at least not initially.”

“We’re a veteran team, but I think he’ll fit in. I think he’ll be able to play with these guys, but we’re not a team in rebuilding mode with a bunch of open roster spots. He’s going to have to come in an earn it.”

“He’s a four-year guy, so he’s played a lot of basketball at a high level. He also played well in the post-season and in big venues. He’s had a great career. If he plays well [in the NBA Summer League], he’ll be invited, he’ll sign a contract and be invited to training camp in L.A. in October.”

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