From Sports Academy to the NBA: Highlighting the 2024 Draft Class
From Sports Academy to the NBA: Highlighting the 2024 Draft Class
Thousand Oaks, Calif., July 30, 2024 – The NBA draft is always an exciting event, as it introduces a new wave of talent into the league. This year’s draft class from Sports Academy includes some of the most promising young athletes in the game. Seven athletes trained at the Sports Academy in Thousand Oaks along with five others at The Star in Dallas, Texas in preparation for the 2024 NBA draft, showcasing their talents and earning impressive draft positions. With three first-round picks, four second-round picks, 3 Exhibit-10 Deal, one Summer League contract, and one two-way contract, these players have made their mark.
The 2024 NBA Draft highlighted a diverse group of talented athletes from both the Sports Academy in Thousand Oaks and The Star in Dallas. From Thousand Oaks, Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr. were both selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves, while Bronny James joined the Los Angeles Lakers. KJ Simpson was picked by the Charlotte Hornets, Ulrich Chomche found his new home with the Toronto Raptors, and Oso Ighodaro was drafted by the Phoenix Suns. Justin Edwards, also from Thousand Oaks, secured a two-way contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, allowing him to split his time between the NBA and the G League. From The Star, Tyrese Samuel, Quincy Olivari, and Jack Gohlke each signed Exhibit 10 deals with the Phoenix Suns, Los Angeles Lakers, and Oklahoma City Thunder, respectively. DJ Horne will join the San Antonio Spurs for the Summer League, and Bud Carrington was selected by the Washington Wizards. Each athlete has showcased their skills and secured opportunities to make an impact in the league.
While all selections were a major step in each athlete’s career, the Los Angeles draft selection was a momentous occasion for the James family, as Bronny James was selected by the team in the second round. Training at Sports Academy, Bronny has developed a well-rounded game and high basketball IQ, making him a valuable addition to the Lakers. His selection also sets the stage for a historic moment, as his father, LeBron James, who has been a familiar face at the Sports Academy, now has the opportunity to take the court with his son. This unique father-son dynamic promises to bring both talent and a special storyline to the Lakers, as LeBron and Bronny look to make their mark together in the NBA.
Minnesota Timberwolves
- Rob Dillingham (Thousand Oaks)
- Terrence Shannon Jr. (Thousand Oaks)
Los Angeles Lakers
- Bronny James (Thousand Oaks)
- Quincy Olivari (The Star) – Exhibit 10 deal
Charlotte Hornets
- KJ Simpson (Thousand Oaks)
Toronto Raptors
- Ulrich Chomche (Thousand Oaks)
Phoenix Suns
- Oso Ighodaro (Thousand Oaks)
- Tyrese Samuel (The Star) – Exhibit 10 deal
Philadelphia 76ers
- Justin Edwards (Thousand Oaks) – Two-way contract
Oklahoma City Thunder
- Jack Gohlke (The Star) – Exhibit 10 deal
San Antonio Spurs
- DJ Horne (The Star) – Summer League
Washington Wizards
- Bud Carrington (The Star)
Ready to take your game to the next level? Join the ranks of elite athletes at Sports Academy and train alongside the next generation of NBA stars. Whether you’re aspiring to make it to the pros or simply want to elevate your skills, our world-class facilities and expert coaching staff are here to help you achieve your basketball dreams. Reach out to us at: https://sportsacademy.us/contact/ today for more information.