My Lance Stephenson watch last spring ended up with Born Ready landing at Cincinnati. It has been well publicized that Stephenson’s road to Cincy was a controversial one. There were even questions about his eligibility as an amateur athlete.
Once on campus Stephenson has shown flashes. He helped to lead the Bearcats to a somewhat surprising early season top 25 ranking. At that point it seemed that, whether it was the correct decision or not, Lance would enter the NBA draft this summer.
It looks like that might not be the case. Although he was dubbed ‘Born Ready’, ironically he might not quite be there.
“I think I’m going to stay and keep working. I don’t think I’ve had an NBA season this year so the best choice for me is to stay.”
This will undoubtedly do wonders for Stephenson’s basketball game. Moreover, it shows growth in the maturity department. That is key. Coach Mick Cronin must be siked. Stephenson leads all Big East freshman averaging over 11 points per game. At the same time he has committed over 60 turnovers and has been inconsistent.
This kid has the star power and he has the NBA skill set and NBA body. That’s why his nickname is ‘Born Ready’. He just needs to fill in the blanks in between and, if he does this, he will be able to go a long way.
He is certainly a player to watch heading into next season.
Lance Stephenson likely to return to Cincinnati Bearcats [Cincinnati Enquirer]
