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The NBA Draft is today, which is a huge day. It's my happiest day of the entire year as it is, essentially, the ending of 60 different sports movies in one night. Each player who will be drafted has gone through their own personal challenges and successes to make it to this day. Even if they never pan out in the league, they will always have the honor of being one of the Top new players in their sport, in their draft year. I may not even be the 60th best Utah Jazz blogger out there. These guys all worked their butts off, had the support of mentors and family, and while each path is different -- each path has led them to the Barclay's Center, in Brooklyn, New York.
I will be there (along with so many other people you may know and love, like Aaron Falk, Dan Clayton, David Locke, Billy Lea, Matt Sanchez, and Ben from KFAN). One place I cannot be is at the Utah Jazz draft party.
It's at the EnergySolutions Arena, and the doors open at 4:30 pm MT.
Utah Jazz broadcasters Craig Bolerjack and Ron Boone will serve as emcees for the evening’s festivities. Fans who attend the NBA Draft Watching Party presented by Zero Fatalities will be able to view the 2014 NBA Draft on the new video display system, featuring the twin, high-definition, center-hung screens that measure 42 feet long and 24 feet high.
The first 3,000 fans through the doors will receive a voucher for a free hot dog and drink as well as an NBA Draft Guide outlining the draft order and highlighting top prospects. Other highlights include live interviews with draft experts courtesy of The Zone Sports Network and ESPN Radio, autographs and photos with the American First Jazz Dancers, and entertainment by Jazz Bear. Concession stands will be open with a variety of food and refreshment options.
Yes, be there and revel in all the cheers, boos, and groans in person as the Jazz front office steer us into the next season. I'm excited. You should be too. If you are excited, but don't want to wear pants, then you can watch it all on ESPN at home, starting at 5:00 pm MT. (I know the pants thing is a dealbreaker for most.)
And just to recap -- the Jazz are going to be involved in every step of this draft as they have a Top 5 lotto pick (#5), a late 1st rounder (#23), and an early second rounder (#35). And, if you haven't been paying attention, the Jazz look to move up and down and all around this draft -- what else do you expect after they worked out a stunning 90+ players for this draft?
GO TO THE ESA! If you are watching at home, I'll be the fat, short, balding Indian dude getting held back by security.