The Charlotte Bobcats used the 12th pick of the 2009 NBA Draft to select Gerald Henderson, fulfilling the hoop dreams of the Duke All-American and keeping him only a few hours away from campus. G is the 40th NBA draft selection under Coach K and the all-time record 15th lottery pick under the Duke Head Coach.
“I am excited about being drafted by the Charlotte Bobcats,” said G. “Charlotte is a great city and the Bobcats have outstanding fan support. I am looking forward to getting in to training camp and summer league to work with my new teammates and the coaching staff. The Bobcats have a bright future and I am grateful to have the opportunity to be a part of it.”
Back in Durham, our players and coaching staff gathered in Scharf Hall to watch the draft together. When David Stern announced Gerald’s name, the room erupted in cheers and everyone was excited to have G playing nearby.
“I am probably happier for him than he is,” said senior Lance Thomas. “Once they called his name, I lost it. It feels so good for him to accomplish that. Being with him for three years, I know how bad he wants it and I know how hard he has worked to get where he is. I am overwhelmed with joy for him.” He added, “And his suit, that was a smooth look, he was the best dressed one up there by far.”
Nolan Smith was quick to suggest frequent team road trips to Charlotte to watch Bobcat home games. “We’re definitely going to go up there and watch some games. We will need about 14 tickets.”
G’s next stop will be in Charlotte to meet with his new team and the media tomorrow. The Pennsylvania native is guaranteed $3.38 million over the next two seasons with team options after that for two seasons. The Bobcats stated they intend to use Raja Bell and G at the shooting guard spot next season.
Duke Draft Notes
*G is the 15th Blue Devil lottery pick, an all-time draft record among schools.
*G is Coach K’s 21st first-round draft pick (tops among all active coaches) and the 13th Duke first-rounder in the past 12 years.
*Former Duke player Jeff Capel, now the head coach at Oklahoma, enjoyed an impressive day in New York. Capel mentored the #1 pick (Blake Griffin), the #20 pick (Eric Maynor) and the #48 pick (Taylor Griffin).
*Former Blue Devil Jay Bilas was on the call as usual providing great draft analyst for ESPN.
