The Denver Nuggets had their fifth group of prospects at the Pepsi Center for a predraft workout Friday morning. The lineup included Weber State guard Joel Bolomboy, Kansas forward Cheick Diallo, Baylor forward Taurean Prince, Northern Iowa guard Wes Washburn and Colorado State guard Antwan Scott.
Scott said that it was a “blessing” to have been invited to work out for the Nuggets and felt that he showed the team he could do more than just score, which was his primary role at CSU. He said he felt he proved his defensive skills as well.
“I just thank God for the opportunity,” Scott said. “I was a little tired (today). I thought I’d adjusted to the altitude because I played in it. But I’ve been back home training in Texas, and this altitude is hard to adjust to again.”
Bolomboy, born in Russia, is positioned to be the first player to come out of Weber State and make the NBA since Portland Trail Blazers point guard Damian Lillard. Bolomboy said he spoke with Lillard before the draft combine.
“He just gave me some advice going into the combine and (said to) be myself, with a chip on my shoulder, and just show everyone I can play,” Bolomboy said. “(I’m) just trying to go kill it out there on the court.”
Diallo went to the draft workout with just one year of college playing time under his belt, primarily in a reserve role at KU. After serving a short suspension because of NCAA eligibility issues, he played in 27 games and averaged three points, 2.5 rebounds and 7.5 minutes.
“It was hard on me because I couldn’t play, I couldn’t do anything for the team,” Diallo said. “So I came in late, and there was nothing I can do. (But) I’m a team player. I don’t get mad if I’m not playing, so every time I step on the court I just go 120 percent.”
Despite rocky patches, the 6-foot-9 forward was the 2015 McDonald’s All-American MVP and 2015 Jordan Classic MVP. This was his first time in Denver.
St. Joseph’s DeAndre’ Bembry was scheduled to show. And although he made the trip to Denver, he missed the workout with a sprained ankle. The 6-6 guard was the 2015-16 Atlantic 10 Player of the Year and the 2015-16 Big 5 Player of the Year.
The Nuggets will continue with predraft workouts next week. The draft will take place at 6 p.m. June 23.
