Former Timberwolves guard Troy Hudson said he's talked to Minnesota freshman forward Royce White about the obstacles he'll face if he tries to make it to the NBA without playing college basketball. White, who announced his intentions to withdraw from the university Tuesday, told the Star Tribune Monday that he will consider all of his options, which might include an attempt to go pro.
Hudson, one of White's mentors, said he advised White to stay in school for at least a year, so he could give himself an opportunity to showcase his skills for NBA scouts.
"I've always told him to make it work at the U," Hudson said Tuesday.
Hudson, who made it to the NBA without being drafted, said he hasn't talked to White about his decision to leave the university but said he believes White has the potential to play professional basketball because of his size, skill set and athleticism.
"I definitely think he can play at the next level," Hudson said. "He's just as athletic as any guy in the NBA."
The Southern Illinois product says he hasn't heard from any NBA or European teams about White but he's willing to help the former Hopkins star if he decides to go in that direction.
"I would still help him out," Hudson said.
But Hudson said he's also talked to White about some of the difficulties associated with making it to the NBA, especially if he doesn't get drafted. Hudson spent time in the CBA before landing on an NBA roster.
