As one of only five college seniors who were selected in the first round of the 2010 NBA Draft, Quincy Pondexters NCAA resume is an extensive one. The 6-foot-6, 225-pound small forward finished his four-year career at the University of Washington as the schools third leading scorer in program history. He also spearheaded the Huskies to a Pac-10 regular season title as a junior, followed by a conference tournament title in his senior year and a trip to the Sweet 16 during March Madness.
I think I might be a little bit more advanced because of how long I stayed in college, said Pondexter, when asked what differentiates him from some of the NBAs other first-year players. What I'll bring to the table for (the Hornets) is my experience and being an older guy. I'm not your typical rookie.
A native of Fresno, Calif., Pondexters experience as a youngster was also anything but common. His father Roscoe and uncle Cliff both played professional basketball each were picked in the 1974 NBA Draft.
It was a huge benefit to have family ties to the NBA and family roots to the NBA, Quincy said. And it gave me a huge advantage.
As he begins his professional career, Pondexter also plans to lean on the advice of several close friends, including New Jersey center Brook Lopez and Phoenix center Robin Lopez, Pondexters high school teammates in Fresno (imagine: a scholastic hoops squad featuring three future NBA players). Hes also tight with Portland All-Star guard Brandon Roy, who incidentally ranks 11th on the University of Washingtons scoring list.
While Pondexter often received considerable accolades as a collegian due to his highlight-reel dunks and point totals, its his defensive ability that was most impressive in the months leading up the NBA season. With a muscular, sturdy build that might also suit him well if he were a football player, the Hornets believe he has the potential to become an outstanding individual and team defender.
Hes a monster, Hornets head coach Monty Williams said during training camp of Pondexters defense. He brings energy. Hes tough. We feel like his defensive upside is exciting.
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