Jordan warms to new experience with NY Knicks

BY PAUL BURROWES Observer writer

Thursday, August 05, 2010

WHEN Jamaican seven-footer Jerome Jordan had his breakout game last month, scoring 16 points and grabbing seven rebounds for the New York Knicks to beat the Detroit Pistons 92-80 in the NBA Summer League, coach Dan D'Antoni was full of praise.

"He had his best game... no doubt. This is the game we were waiting for him to have," D'Antoni said.

The Knicks had acquired Jordan from the Milwaukee Bucks in exchange for cash considerations.

A second-round, 44th-overall pick, Jordan -- a Jamaica College past student -- impressed the Knicks with his attacking play.

"His offence is good. He's got a nice little shot. He probably needs a couple more years with his development to get strength and run a little better and not to be so gangly. But, again, I think he's a little bit of a project, but in a couple of years I think he'll be fine, said D'Antoni, who believes the 23-year-old Jordan will be one of three rookies to make the regular-season roster.

Meanwhile, a Knicks team report on July 29 notes that Jordan "adds needed length and great size, with shot-blocking prowess".

Jordan told the Observer that "training with the Knicks has been different than my college training experience since I've been adjusting to the faster pace as well as bigger and stronger competition".

He noted that it was "great experience" playing against the Nuggets, Raptors, Lakers, Wizards and Pistons in the NBA Summer League and he is eager to learn.

"I receive a lot of positive advice from my close friends and coaches from both the past and present. I've heard to keep working hard and not relax too much right now. My journey has just begun and the sky is the limit for me.

"It was a great feeling and dream come true to hear my name called on draft night.

"The journey from college to the NBA consisted of a lot of hard work every day. I made sure to push myself very hard before and after practice," he pointed out.

What is his message to young Jamaican basketball players wanting to play in the NBA?

"If it's your dream to play in the NBA then you have to believe in yourself and hard work. Having confidence in yourself throughout the journey is key. Make sure to do the extra things that nobody else is doing, to keep yourself ahead of your competition," he advised.

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Jordan warms to new experience with NY Knicks