Author: Jonathan Kiernan (@JonathanKNBA)

I've been bleeding purple and gold since 2000, I should really get that checked out. I am the Senior Managing editor at Lakers UK and a contributor at lakeshowlife.com. Follow me on twitter @JonathanKNBA

Cole Anthony Speaks to Damian Lillard and Kemba Walker Ahead of Draft

Ahead of the draft on November 18, NBA Call-Ups were able to speak to a number of top prospects. With one of those prospects being Cole Anthony.

Despite an underwhelming freshman campaign at the collegiate level, with North Carolina, Anthony is still a highly sought-after point guard.

The 20-year-old had a relatively strong season with the Tar Heels. But poor shooting was one of the factors that has led to his draft stock falling.

Through 22 games in the 2019-20 season, he averaged 18.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1.3 steals per contest. This was on 38% shooting from the field, 34.8% from 3.

Additionally, Anthony had to battle injury. Missing part of the season with a partially torn meniscus.

NBA Draft 2020: 5 best fits for UNC point guard Cole Anthony
(Image/Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

When speaking to NBA Call-Ups, Cole Anthony revealed some NBA names that he has spoken to on his journey to the professional ranks.

Q: On your journey to the NBA over the past few years, have you been in contact with any NBA players that have assisted in the development of your game? If so, what advice did you receive from them that helped?

Cole Anthony: “Honestly, not really. I’m certainly very cool with some guys. Mo Bamba is one of my best friends. I’m cool with a bunch of players but in terms of my development, probably not.”

“I’ve talked with Kemba (Walker), Dame Lillard a little bit asking questions about the game. But in terms of helping, nothing really hands on.”

Kemba Walker and Damian Lillard are certainly two excellent sources of wisdom for the young guard. Even though he states that he hasn’t worked out with either, one would think that he was able to gain valuable insight just in the form of a conversation.

Cole Anthony could very well sneak into the lottery selections of the 2020 NBA Draft. However, NBADraft.net projects him to be selected at #15.

Stay up-to-date with the latest from the NBA G League, as well as with the development of future elite prospects from around the world, by following Call-Ups on all social media channels.

Including on Twitter Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Jalen Smith Speaks About His Ever Improving 3-Point Shot

During pre-draft media availability ahead of the 2020 NBA Draft on November 18, NBA Call-Ups were able to speak with potential lottery pick Jalen Smith.

The topic centered around the improvements he has been able to make to his game in preparation for his looming NBA opportunity.

Q: You have seen an exponential growth in your 3-point shooting over the course of your college career. What have you been able to introduce into your game to bring your percentage up almost 10%? And how do you feel your 3-point shot will translate to the NBA?

Jalen Smith: “I think my shot is going to be very consistent a lot more. Obviously with this time, I have been able to get a lot more adjusted to the NBA 3–point line and get a lot more shots up.”

“I feel that with my work ethic and my late nights in the gym it is going to be very crucial for me being able to good shooter at the NBA level.”

Smith was able to improve upon his freshman year with a dominant season for the Maryland Terrapins. With his 3-point shooting improving dramatically, from 26.8% in the 2018-19 season, to 36.8% in 2019-20.

In his sophomore, and final season, with Maryland Smith posted averages of 15.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks, on 53.8% FG.

This has prompted the 20-year-old to push towards the NBA. Where he is expected to be selected in the mid-to-late teens of the 2020 NBA Draft.

Stay up-to-date with the latest from the NBA G League, as well as with the development of future elite prospects from around the world, by following Call-Ups on all social media channels.

Including on Twitter Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Jameer Nelson Joins the Delaware Blue Coats as Assistant GM

The Delaware Blue Coats have announced that former NBA Star Jameer Nelson will be joining the organization as the new Assistant General Manager. The Blue Coats are the G League affiliate of the Philadelphia 76ers.

In a press release, the Blue Coats signaled their delight at landing Nelson.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jameer Nelson to the organization as he takes the next step in his storied basketball career. Jameer is a natural fit given his tremendous playing career, deep industry relationships and strong connection to our communities on and off the court. I am eager to work with him as we continue to grow our program in Delaware.”

Matt Lilly, Delaware Blue Coats General Manager

Bags of Experience:

Jameer Nelson brings a wealth of basketball experience and knowledge to the Blue Coats. Being a 14-year veteran and a former NBA All-Star, he will provide valuable insight to General Manager, Matt Lilly.

In additional, he will provide an excellent understanding to the players of the organization. In terms of what it takes to be a professional and how to develop towards the highest level.

Nelson was the 20th overall selection in the 2004 NBA Draft, by the Orlando Magic. Over the course of his career, he was able to make an All-Star team in the 2008-09 campaign. Where he was part of a Magic team, alongside Dwight Howard, that made the NBA Finals.

The 38-year-old holds an NBA career average of 11.3 points and 5.1 assists per contest. Playing in over 878 games in the association.

He’s the all-time assist leader for the Orlando Magic with 3501 and ranks 2nd in all-time games, with 651. Furthermore, he’s 3rd in 3-pointers made (874) and 5th in both points and steals, with 8,184 and 619, respectively.

“I can’t wait to get started. I’m energized by the chance to help shape this organization’s future. I want to thank the 76ers and Blue Coats for the opportunity, and I look forward to using what I learned during my playing career to identify and elevate talent within our program.”

Jameer Nelson, Delaware Blue Coats Assistant General Manager

Stay up-to-date with the latest from the NBA G League, as well as with the development of future elite prospects from around the world, by following Call-Ups on all social media channels.

Including on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.