Kingston Flemings has declared for the NBA draft, and the Houston Cougars will clearly miss the freshman’s dominance. Houston head coach Kelvin Sampson has reacted to the news.
“Cuz none of them are [returning]. But if Jarace [Walker] had come back his sophomore year, Chris [Cenac] his sophomore year, Kingston [Flemings]’s sophomore year, that’s how you win championships. But you’re also proud that you’re bringing in kids that are one and done. I’m proud of Kingston. Am I upset about it? Heck no, I’m proud of it,” Sampson said.
“God, can’t wait to, I don’t go a lot of NBA games anymore. These guys will call me and want to leave me tickets. I said, you don’t leave me tickets, I can get them anyway,” Coach joked.
Kelvin Sampson’s Houston had a decent season with a Sweet 16 finish. The Cougars roster was filled with immense talent. Freshman Kingston Flemings was absolutely sensational over the course of the season. He averaged 16.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 5.2 assists in 37 games.
The 6’4 guard led the Cougars second-position finish in the Big 12 with a 30-7 overall and 14-4 conference record. They were adjudged seventh in the Final AP poll.
Kelvin Sampson praises former Houston stars
While talking about some of the one-and-done seasons for players under his leadership, Kelvin Sampson remembered some of the other stars who had grown under him and are now playing in the NBA.
He continued to share how proud he is of Marcus Sasser with the Detroit Pistons, L.J. Cryer with the Golden State Warriors, Jamal with Toronto, Jarace Walker with the Indiana Pacers, Quentin Grimes with the Philadelphia 76ers, and DeJon Jarreau with the Memphis Grizzlies.
He also praised Armoni Brooks, who is playing in Europe. He recalled Fabian White Jr., Justin Gorham, Jwan Roberts, and Chris Harris.
“There’s so many great stories that came out of this program. That’s what I want this program to be known for, is we produce outstanding players but better people. I’m proud of that,” he said.
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