Central Florida Forward Taylor Hendricks Selected by Utah Jazz in NBA Draft

Taylor Hendricks, a forward from Central Florida, has been selected by the Utah Jazz with the ninth pick in the NBA draft. The Jazz had considered nine players for their pick but ultimately decided to stay put and choose Hendricks.

Hendricks had an impressive freshman season with the Knights, which helped him rise in the predraft rankings. Reflecting on his journey, Hendricks expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play in the NBA. Just a year ago, he wasn’t even thinking about going pro and was solely focused on improving in college.

Standing at 6-foot-8 and weighing 214 pounds, Hendricks is known for his versatility on defense and his ability to play multiple positions. He shot an impressive 39.4% from 3-point range on 4.6 attempts per game. In addition, he averaged 15.1 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game.

Hendricks is expected to be the successor to Kelly Olynyk at power forward for the Jazz. He will join Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler to form a formidable frontcourt for the team. Hendricks believes their length and shot-blocking abilities will make them a strong defensive unit.

Known for his athleticism and vertical leap, Hendricks was a constant threat for UCF with his ability to finish at the rim. While he excelled as a weakside shot-blocker, he will need to bulk up to become a true rim-protector in the NBA. However, his defensive versatility allows him to guard multiple positions.

Offensively, Hendricks is skilled in pick-and-roll plays as a target but needs to work on his ability to create plays for his teammates. He averaged just 1.4 assists per game and will need to improve his ball-handling skills.

Jazz fans can expect Hendricks to make an immediate impact with his hustle plays, such as diving for loose balls, taking charges, and challenging opponents at the rim. His work ethic and determination have impressed the Jazz’s decision-makers, including CEO Danny Ainge, owner Ryan Smith, and coach Will Hardy.

With his selection, Hendricks becomes the first Central Florida player ever chosen in the lottery. The Jazz also selected Baylor guard Keyonte George with the No. 16 overall pick in the draft.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

What challenges does Taylor Hendricks anticipate facing as he transitions from college to the NBA, and how does he plan to overcome them

College career, Hendricks expressed appreciation for the opportunities he had at Central Florida and thanked his coaches and teammates for their support. He also acknowledged the challenge of navigating through the NBA draft process and how it added to his growth as a player.

With his selection by the Utah Jazz, Hendricks is eager to showcase his skills at the professional level. He recognizes the high level of competition in the NBA and is prepared to put in the work to make a positive impact on the team.

The Utah Jazz had several options to consider for their ninth pick in the NBA draft but ultimately chose to stay put and select Hendricks. This shows their confidence in his abilities and potential to contribute to their team’s success.

Hendricks’ selection is not only a testament to his hard work and dedication, but also to the Central Florida basketball program. It highlights the program’s ability to develop talented players and prepare them for the next level.

As Hendricks embarks on his NBA journey, he remains humble and focused on improving his game. He understands that success in the NBA will require continual growth and adaptation to the demands of the league.

Overall, Taylor Hendricks’ selection by the Utah Jazz is a significant moment in his career. It is an opportunity for him to prove himself on the professional stage and contribute to the success of the team.