The Future for Ron and Lang

Well, Hawk fans it’s time to come to realize that Langston and Ron did not make the cut to play in the NBA. It was a fun ride to watch for all of us from HawkHill to see these guys go after their dreams. SJU fans were pulling for these guys because we all know how much both of these players deserved this opportunity. Though we may not be seeing the former SJU Hawks in any professional uniforms in the upcoming weeks, there is always a chance, a hope that someone will realize and see the potential that both of these guys have. These dreams are not yet done; there is always a chance that we may see one of them in the NBA one day.

As many of us know Langston can shoot, not only can he shoot he can shoot better than a lot of guys in the NBA. We have heard from many coaches and reporters that many NBA scouts thought Lang was actually a better shooter and basketball player then a lot of players on rosters. One team in particular, the Indiana Pacers, said that Langston was a better shooter then 14 of their 15 players. Langston proved several times during both the Summer League and Training Camp, that he can play the game. Langston is the type of player that coaches love, and many think he can help an NBA team, the problem lies in his height. As we all know Langston is too small to play Shooting Guard in the NBA, but he is too much of a shooter to play the Point. Here lies the problem with Langston, where does he fit, what position would he play? In my opinion, it should not matter about his height, if the guy has the ability to play, then he deserves his opportunity.

Ron is a completely different story. Many people, reports, experts, and fans thought that Ronald Roberts Jr. was a no doubter. That he would 100% make the Sixers this season and that he may be playing close to HawkHill. As everyone knows Ron has unbelievable athleticism, and that is the main reason why almost every scout thought he was going to be a Sixer. The problem with Ron was that he got hurt, and you can’t do anything about that. Ron was not able to play up to his potential due to his injury, and when you are trying to make a team this is going to hurt your opportunity. Ron proved in several games whether it be his crazy dunk, or his ability to get rebounds, he can play in the NBA. Roberts has always been an effort player. During the Summer League and preseason, the former number 13 also got bigger to take on NBA talent.

It is said to see their journeys of trying to make their respective NBA teams end. But, that does not mean the NBA dream is over for either guy. Langston and Ron both know that they have the ability to play at the highest level. These two individuals just need to be given the opportunity to prove themselves worthy to both coaches and fans. I have a feeling that we will be seeing one of them in an NBA jersey soon enough. 

-Brett

Ronald Roberts Jr. is NBA ready

Since Ronald Roberts Jr. did not get drafted, he is forced to take the long road to the NBA. Every player in the summer leagues is trying to prove that they are worth having on the team and scrapping for that last spot. During Roberts Jr. senior year with the Hawks, his production was never consistent throughout his senior year. Even if NBA scouts did take notice of him, he did not keep their attention. Everybody, including NBA scouts wonder if he is more than just a freak athlete. It is already known that he plays hard, rebounds, and dunks. Not too belittle what he is great at, but that might not be enough.

Throughout the six games of the Orlando Summer League the NBA is seeing what Saint Joes fans have seen for past four years: one handed dunks, put back dunks, and a rebounding machine. During those games he consistently showed his high energy effort. It is also evident that he was a four year college due to his maturity and smartness. It did look as if he had it easy because he was playing alongside Nerlens Noel. But then he played center in place of him for two games and dominated. During the title game which Noel was on bench for, Roberts had a double-double of 12 points and 11 rebounds. Ronald Roberts Jr. helped the 76ers to win the Orlando Championship League with an average of 10 points and 6.8 rebounds.

It was strange watching him in a uniform other than a Hawks’. Because the Sixers want to develop young promising players, Roberts has a great chance of making the team. The athleticism that Philadelphia 76ers like is there for Ronald being 6’8” tall, 225 pounds, possessing a 7’1” wingspan. The 76ers are a fast pace team, which Roberts is able to run the court with ease. He also does not have a good outside shot which another standard of theirs. But one reason they may not be so high on him is that he is able to play right away because he is not injured nor has a contract overseas.

During the two summer leagues everybody is fighting for a roster spot on an NBA team. With that being said he played harder than every player on the court. His high energy effort and play made him a fan favorite quickly. He is this year’s Khaliff Wyatt. Let’s just hope the Sixers stick with him. Ronald Roberts Jr. could join the long list of 6’8” strong and physical effort players that play a key role of dominating skinny 6’10” kids around. He would give an NBA team toughness, energy, and athleticism off the bench at the 4. If he does not end up on an NBA team’s final roster he will definitely be able to make 6 figures overseas.

The former number 13 for SJU Hawks proved that he can play at the NBA level on a regular basis. After his showing during the Sixers’ championship run during the Orlando Summer League Roberts should be invited to 76ers training camp. There are other teams interested in Ronald if the Sixers are not as he is now suiting up for the Miami Heat in Las Vegas Summer League.

-Glen