Deadline nears for Hawes
SEATTLE – In between a steady stream of brief interviews Saturday afternoon, Spencer Hawes got a few moments to chat with his current coach, Lorenzo Romar.
Romar could become Hawes’ former coach by Monday.
Hawes, Washington’s freshman center who made himself available for this year’s NBA draft without hiring an agent, has until 2 p.m. Monday to decide whether to remain in the draft or return to Washington for his sophomore campaign.
“It’s hard to say right now, but I’m trying not to get too stressed out about it or whatever,” Hawes said while watching an exhibition basketball game. “I’m just trying to make an informed decision.”
One of the most lauded recruits in Washington’s history, the 7-footer led the Huskies in scoring, averaging nearly 15 points even though he was slowed by injuries and illness for part of the season. Hawes was named to the Pac-10 Conference all-freshman team.
Hawes didn’t dominate the college game as many had expected, but his lanky frame and flawless fundamentals have intrigued teams in the draft lottery.
In the last 10 days, Hawes has worked out for Philadelphia (No. 12 pick), Sacramento (No. 10), Chicago (No. 9) and Minnesota (No. 7).
Boston, which owns the No. 5 pick, also attended his workout in Philadelphia.
Hawes planned to discuss his plans with Romar and his family before making an announcement.