By Miguel Mike Medina

Photo Credit: Patrick McDermott/GettyImages

Former North Carolina Tar Heel Drake Powell was selected as the 22nd overall pick by the Brooklyn Nets, who received the pick from the Atlanta Hawks. 

Powell will join former Tar Heel alumni Cam Johnson and Day’Ron Sharpe on the roster. Powell becomes UNC’s 55th NBA first-round pick.

It’s been four years since a Tar Heel player was selected in the first round. Coach Hubert Davis must feel satisfied to see one of his players make it to the NBA, and Powell became the first player under David to get drafted. 

It’s a dream come true for Powell, who received the call that he will play in the NBA. However, is Powell ready to play in the big leagues, and could he hold his own? 

Powell is a good defender—it’s one of his best attributes. He earned the team’s Defensive Player of the Year award. Powell is lengthy and has the potential to play in the NBA for a long time if he can deliver maturity and is willing to put in relentless hours of work. 

Powell made 24 starts in 37 games for the Tar Heels last season and averaged 7 points per game to go along with three rebounds and one assist. 

Powell shot 48 percent from the field and nearly 38 percent from the three-point line. It would’ve made more sense if Powell stayed in college for one or two more years to get more experience and elevate his game.

The Nets have to develop Powell very smartly and strategically because he needs to work on his game. If the Nets want to create a monster that can change the organization, then they have to put their full trust and belief in Powell.

Miguel Mike Medina is the publisher of The MMM Journal. He can be reached at medinamiguelmike@gmail.com and themmmjournal@gmail.com 

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