On the same day NBA executives belief in Jabari Parker staying at Duke went up, Kansas star big man Joel Embiid spoke out on his future.
NBA executives and scouts have been salivating over the 7-footer from Cameroon. His stock has reached the point where it can’t go anywhere but down.
Most mock drafts have him listed as the top pick of the upcoming draft. The only problem is that Embiid isn’t sure if he’s ready for the NBA lifestyle just yet.
One day I was talking to [Kansas head coach Bill Self] and I was like, ‘Yeah, I don’t even know how to drive yet.’ Eating healthy. I don’t know how to do that yet. I don’t know if I feel like I’m ready for all of this.
I want to be the best at my position one day. I’m trying to learn everything and what other people did. All of the great big men went to college at least two or three years. I think it’s a big factor. I don’t know if it will always work, but I think it’s the best choice.
It’s hard to pass up being the number one pick, but Embiid is in an unique situation. The kid is still learning the American culture. There’s a better chance of him returning for his sophomore year than Jabari Parker.