The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/362774
MICHIGAN IN THE PROS "For me, I've been knocking down wide-open shots when they've been given to me, finishing at the rim and getting my teammates on the Select Team some open shots by passing to them at the right time and right spot," he said. "My confidence has continued to rise and I can't wait for the real Knicks' training camp in October. I heard the great Earl Monroe said this week that I'm 'not afraid' and I 'got the heart for the NBA game' and he can 'see it in my eyes.' "All I can say is that's an honor to hear that from a Hall of Famer. Having that no-fear attitude on the court, with all these great players, is what helped me have a successful rookie season with the Knicks. I always played with a sense of urgency as a rookie. "I know a lot of people overlooked me heading into the draft, but those mock drafts, and really where I was drafted, didn't mean a thing. I knew coming into last year's draft that all I had to do was prove to one or two teams that I could play at the next level, and luckily I did. Because if you're worried about what others are saying, you're not focused on what really matters." Hardaway, who averaged 10.2 points per contest while playing in 81 games for the Knicks, was also named to the NBA All-Rookie team last season. ❏ Jamal Crawford • NBA The former Michigan guard tore up the Seattle Pro-Am League in July. Crawford notched a total of 104 points in two games July 14-15, pouring in 53 in a game a day after dropping 51. Denard Robinson • NFL The former Michigan quarterback, now playing running back for the Jacksonville Jaguars, has been one of the Jags' few backs to stay healthy in the preseason. He rushed for 36 yards on seven carries, including a 25-yard touchdown, in the preseason opener against Tampa Bay. David Molk • NFL The former Michigan center, signed by Philadelphia as a free agent, stands a great chance to make the Eagles' roster. Molk didn't play last year after being cut by San Diego. HEADLINERS Former Michigan athletes in the news this month