Doug McDermott led the nation in scoring his senior season and ranks fifth all-time in NCAA Division I history with 3,150 points. He became the first player in 29 years to be named to the AP All-America team three times. McDermott was also the consensus national player of the year, winning all major awards (Wooden, Naismith, AP, NABC, USBWA and Sporting News).
On Wednesday, June 4, McDermott was one of 12 prospects to go through a pre-draft workout in front of Lakers brass at the team's practice facility. PHOTO GALLERY
Below is a transcription of his comments to assembled media members:
Q: On his thoughts on when he sees the retired jerseys and championship banners hanging on the rafters:
McDermott: It’s pretty crazy. It’s a dream come true. It’s my first workout so I was a little nervous to start, especially it being the Lakers, but it went really well. It’s a privilege to be here.
Q: On what he plans to work on the next few weeks before the NBA Draft:
McDermott: Ballhandling mainly and lateral quickness. I feel like my jumper will always be there. I just have to work on the in between stuff. I have a long ways to go in that area, but I feel like I’ll improve every day.
Q: On if he’s heard any comparisons to current NBA players:
McDermott: It’s a tough comparison but guys like (Kyle) Korver. I’m really good at coming off screens, I’m a great shooter. I watch a lot of Ray Allen, guys like that. I feel like I can really find a role in this league and maximize that.
Q: On what position he’ll defend in the NBA:
McDermott: I could get a lot bigger. I’m not going to grow any more so I definitely have to hit the weight room hard and that’ll allow me to guard a four at times. But I guarded a lot of strong guys in college so I think I can adjust once I get a little stronger, but as of now, I’m going to have to guard three’s and possibly two’s, and I think I can do it.
Q: On what it was like being a four-year guy competing and being around multiple underclassmen in workouts:
McDermott: It’s pretty crazy. I couldn’t imagine being 18 or 19 going through this process. I feel like I’m still a young guy, but I’m three years older than them. I like to give guys like that advice, too. Obviously they’re good guys and they’re open to listening to older guys.
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Pre-Draft Workout
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McDermott ranked second in lane agility time (11.10 seconds), eighth in shuttle run (3.15 seconds), seventh in three quarter sprint (3.29 seconds) and fifth in max vertical leap (36.5 inches) among all small forwards at the NBA Draft Combine.
Other NBA Draft Combine Measurements
Standing Vertical Leap: 28.5 inches
Hand Length: 8.75 inches
Hand Width: 9.75 inches
Standing Reach: 8 feet, 7 inches
Wingspan: 6 feet, 9.25 inches