Spring Break
Should he stay or should he go?
Prep star Brandon Jennings covets Europe
Kellen Holtzman
Issue date: 7/16/08 Section: Sports
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When Oak Hill point guard Brandon Jennings mapped out his career plans, a stay with a European outfit was probably the furthest thing from this prep superstar's mind.
Jennings began his prep career at Dominguez High School in Los Angeles-the same Dominguez High School that produced Tyson Chandler and Tayshaun Prince.
The stylish performer became one of the most coveted prospects in the nation after two seasons at Oak Hill Academy in Virginia. Jennings is rated as a top-10 prospect on just about every scouting list you will find. He is also widely considered the best point guard of the 2008 class.
Jennings' notoriety soared to new levels after an impressive 12-point and nine-assist showing in the 2008 McDonald's All-American Game. Jennings used the game to prove that he was capable of sharing the ball in addition to being a go-to scorer.
The Californian commanded attention with his outgoing personality and 1990's style fro. He instantly became one of the most recognizable members of the 2008 class.
Jennings' exploits attracted the likes of Arizona, Connecticut, Kansas and USC to pursue a letter of intent. Lute Olson and Arizona secured the future starlet's signature, overriding a previous commitment to USC.
In years past, college probably wouldn't have even been on Jennings' radar, but the NBA's age limit rule prohibited him from entering the NBA draft.
Jennings' recent announcement that he would pursue playing in Europe sent shockwaves throughout the basketball world. Speculation insists that Jennings could not meet the minimum SAT scores necessary for him to suit up as a Wildcat.
Rather than risk sinking into anonymity in the junior college ranks or the NBA Developmental League, Jennings is expected to be on the brink of signing with a European team.
The idea is that Jennings would spend a season in Europe, collect a paycheck, and promptly enter the 2009 NBA Draft. He would become the first American to bypass college basketball for Europe.
At just over 6-feet tall, many scouts have compared the playmaking lefty to Kenny Anderson and Allen Iverson-so, finding an interested team is the least of his worries.
Israel, Italy, and Spain would seem the most logical destinations for Jennings if he seeks the best competition.
Lottomatica Roma has been rumored to have offered Jennings a two-year contract. Roma finished second in the Italian Serie A standings behind Montepaschi Siena, good enough for a Euroleague berth.
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