Through the Phog
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Kansas basketball: Wayne Selden was ready for NBA

By Stan Unruh

Apr 4, 2017; San Antonio, TX, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Wayne Selden (7) is fouled while shooting by San Antonio Spurs power forward David Lee (10) during the second half at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 4, 2017; San Antonio, TX, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Wayne Selden (7) is fouled while shooting by San Antonio Spurs power forward David Lee (10) during the second half at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports /
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Kansas basketball fans were disappointed but not surprised when Wayne Selden left after three seasons. I am glad he is seeing success in the NBA.

I will admit, I thought Wayne Selden should have stayed for another season of Kansas basketball. His third and final season for Bill Self was fun. When Selden was on, he was unstoppable.  Remember his play in the big win over Kentucky?  Who can forget Selden’s Uncle Anthony?   He became a national TV and YouTube sensation during the 2016 Big 12 tournament.

I was not surprised when Selden was overlooked in the NBA draft.  Several teams needed his help.  They didn’t like Perry Ellis either and decided to shop elsewhere.  I guess the NBA decision makers don’t put much stock in the success of Kansas basketball. I hope that changes for Frank Mason on Thursday.

Selden decided to take his talent to the NBA Developmental League.  There is certainly no shame in that.  His positive attitude and hard work paid off.  He averaged 18 points a game in the D-League assignment.

I don’t follow the NBA closely. However, I was thrilled when I learned he was getting a chance with New Orleans- even a 10-day opportunity. He made the most of it.

When Memphis called him up in mid-March, he proved me wrong.  The Grizzlies signed him to a multi-year contract and suddenly he was in the NBA playoffs.


Selden begins summer league play for Memphis on July 8.  Someone on the team must think a lot of the former Kansas basketball star.  A photo of Selden is featured on the team web site announcing their summer league games.

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He is another great example of how hard work, determination and commitment pay off.  He has no long-term guarantee in Memphis. On the other hand, he is just the kind of player they need. I expect him to have a very successful NBA career.

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