keith-brumbaugh The Draft Review - The Draft ReviewRemember Keith Brumbaugh? He was the top 15 recruit that entered the 2005 NBA Draft out of high school but later withdrew to play for Oklahoma State. The media and basketball community applauded his decision, but after he was charged with shoplifting at an Oklahoma Wal-Mart the NCAA questioned his ACT score and required him to retake the test. Brumbaugh transferred without ever playing a single game for Oklahoma State.

His journey then took him to Chipola Junior College (one of the finest junior college basketball programs in the nation) where he took summer courses, but Brumbaugh got into more trouble for possession of marijuana and was kicked off the team. He was written off as another wasted talent and quickly forgotten…or maybe not.

Keith Brumbaugh has learned from his youthful indiscretions and is back in the game setting the nets on fire at Hillsborough Community College. Not convinced? This sophomore’s game is quite impressive.

In six games this season Brumbaugh has averaged a staggering 41 points and 13 rebounds. As a 6-10 small forward he incredibly demonstrates ball handling skills and perimeter shooting. Even more impressive is the 6 assists per game he’s racked up. I had the opportunity to speak with Brumbaugh’s head coach, Derrick Worrels, about his willingness to share the ball.

“Keith understands how to get his teammates involved,” said Coach Worrels. “The most important thing for him to realize is that what may be an easy play for him may not be something his teammates are capable of converting.”

Brumbaugh’s numbers speak for themselves, but has he really changed as a person?

“Keith has had to learn when and how to deal with people,” stated Worrels. “I mean, not everyone that you know is good for you. If anything I would say his past has made him even more cautious around people. He’s a great kid. You really can’t go off what some have printed about him.”

Its obvious Brumbaugh will end up at a major Division I college. South Florida and Ohio State are already eyeing his development. I’ll also be following his growth as a player, but most importantly, his off the court conduct. In a world where corruption and far worse crimes are committed every day, I truly hope Brumbaugh will silence the critics that continue to judge him on his past.

Keep Keith Brumbaugh on your list of NBA draft talents to watch.

View Brumbaugh's TDR Scouting Report



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