Chris McCullough Makes NBA Debut

Former Syracuse basketball forward Chris McCullough saw his first action of the season last night for the Brooklyn Nets.

As I was heading to the Barclays Center on Monday evening, my expectations were paltry, considering it was a battle between two of the worst teams in the NBA, the Nets and Nuggets. However, I was pleasantly surprised when I saw former Syracuse stand out Chris McCullough make his way to the scorers table in the second quarter. He was active last game against the Sacramento Kings, but did not manage to see any minutes.

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When he entered on Monday, he instantly made his presence felt with a steal right off the bat. His range was evident, as his first field goal was a 20 foot jumper He ended up playing a total of 11 minutes and finished with two points, two rebounds, one steal and one block. He should continue to see minutes in the 10-15 range, as he is still easing back from a serious injury, not to mention that he is still a rookie.

Despite the limited minutes, McCullough’s explosiveness was definitely noted. While this may of been a surprise to most NBA fans, those who followed him at Syracuse know that this was no fluke.

The 6’11 forward started the first 16 games for Syracuse in the 2014-2015 season. In these 16 games, he averaged 9.1 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, 1.7 steals and 2.1 blocks in 28.1 minutes per game. This impressive start was unfortunately brought to a halt when he tore his ACL against Florida State. To many people’s surprise, McCullough still declared for the NBA draft and managed to be a first round pick.

The Nets were able to snag him with the 29th overall pick and planned on this being a “red shirt” season for him. His rehab has progressed tremendously and he is very much ahead of schedule. This is music to the Nets’ ears, as they are looking for a young spark on the roster. The 21 year old will be able to fill that role.

Dec 6, 2014; Syracuse, NY, USA; Syracuse Orange forward Chris McCullough (5) drives the ball on St. John’s Red Storm guard Sir’Dominic Pointer (15) during the second half of a game at the at Carrier Dome. St. John’s won the game 69-57. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports /

Coming out of Syracuse, the perception was that he should have stayed another year. His decision proved to be successful, as he was still a first round pick. But another year at Syracuse could have also significantly increased his draft stock, with the possibility of even being a lottery pick.

"“Great size and length at the four spot to go along with top-notch fluidity when running the floor and getting off the ground … Scores, rebounds and can defend high above the rim … Very dangerous in transition, uses very good angles when running with guards and attacks the basket with regularity … Ability to put the ball on the floor and makes quick moves to the basket, draws a lot of fouls and gets good looks close to the hoop … Has potential to stretch the floor with his outside shot. Confidence in jumper is building and he is a threat to knock down the open 15-17 footer, with range even out to the college three point line.” -Scouts at NBAdraft.net"

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They also cited that he needs to put on weight, work on establishing some moves near the basket, and improve his ball handling skills. I look forward to seeing McCullough’s progression in the NBA as he develops into a starter. Stay tuned to Inside the Loud House as we continue to follow his career. Also check back tomorrow for news on the upcoming Syracuse basketball schedule.

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