AZ Republic 6/23: Ilic, Gortat, Stevie Graham

[Kolo]

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Serbian center impresses with shooting skills

Paul Coro
The Arizona Republic
Jun. 23, 2005 12:00 AM

Mile Ilic pulled out of last year's NBA draft when he did not get a first-round guarantee. A day after deciding to stay in this year's draft, Ilic worked out Wednesday for the Suns against Polish big man Marcin Gortat.

Apparently, someone likes the Serbian 20-year-old's 7-foot-1 frame and 9-foot-5 standing reach. Ilic said he stayed in this year's draft because he believes he will be taken in the first round, "maybe first 15." He had worked out only for Denver but also plans to go to New York.

"It's my dream," Ilic said. "I want to play NBA, but maybe I'm not strong (enough)." advertisement




Ilic averaged 7.3 points and 3.4 rebounds last season for BC Reflex of the Adriatic League.

"He's as good of a shooter as there is at the five (center) spot," said David Griffin, Suns director of player personnel. "He's highly skilled and makes pretty good decisions. He doesn't have the lift you'd like for a guy in the paint, but his skill set compensates for that."

Gortat, the son of a boxer and a volleyball player, is more athletic and rugged but is a relative hoops novice. He would be a possible No. 57 pick for the Suns, along with Wednesday's other visitors, Oklahoma State guard Stephen Graham and Florida State guard Von Wafer.

Graham is the twin of Joey Graham, a projected lottery pick. Phoenix worked out the twins privately during the playoffs.

"(Point guard) is like second nature to me, but I'm a true two (guard)," said Stephen, whose character is hailed by the Suns.


Viva Las Vegas
NBA labor peace means the expanded Reebok Vegas Summer League can proceed. The Suns will make a second straight visit but will not double up with the usual Utah trip.

The roster will include Leandro Barbosa, two possible draft picks and free agents. Phoenix plans to have assistant Marc Iavaroni coach the team, but he is a top candidate for the head coaching job in Portland.

After two days of camp in Phoenix, the Suns will play six games in 10 days at Nevada-Las Vegas' Cox Pavilion. The opener is at 5 p.m. July 6 vs. Sacramento.

 

[coloradosun]

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The Suns worked out both Grahams during the playoffs, that's news. I like Stephan @#57.