Ex-Curie star Alexander trying to find way in NBA
The rim at the United Center felt familiar to Trail Blazers power forward Cliff Alexander.
When he took the floor 90 minutes before tipoff, Alexander, a Chicago native, noted how easy his shot fell in pregame shooting drills. It wasn’t the first time he had stepped onto the court at the United Center, having played in the McDonald’s All-American Game two years ago.
But for Alexander— once one of the most coveted recruits in the nation— pregame shooting was the only action he would see.
In his first NBA season, Alexander has been inactive for most games. The game Saturday against the Bulls was no exception.
Despite enormous expectations coming out of Curie High School, Alexander, 20, simply is trying to find his way after not being drafted.
‘‘I just have to continue to work and learn how to be a pro,’’ Alexander said. ‘‘It’s frustrating, not playing, but that’s the phase I have to go through to earn playing time.’’
Alexander, averaging 1.4 points, has appeared in only seven games and said he can’t take anything for granted.
In college, Alexander struggled at Kansas. He dealt with injuries and an indefinite suspension after his mom reportedly received improper benefits from a financial company. He missed the last eight games of the season, but he said it still was a shock that he wasn’t drafted.
‘‘It was heartbreaking,’’ Alexander said. ‘‘I had my whole family there with me. My mom was crying. It was hurting me to see her cry and be in that situation. It hurt me. It was just a terrible night.’’
Alexander, though, latched on with the Blazers on the recommendation of his agent. Coach Terry Stotts said Alexander has been ‘‘a really good worker all year.’’
‘‘He’s got a great attitude, and there’s no question he’s gotten better because of the work he’s put in,’’ Stotts said.
Alexander said he has made noticeable improvements in his ballhandling and jump shot.
Mike Oliver, his high school coach, said Alexander now knows the process that goes into being a professional. The two keep in touch.
‘‘His conversation and his mannerisms, he’s much more focused on basketball now,’’ Oliver said. ‘‘He’s in the best shape he’s ever been in.’’
Before the game, Alexander filled out a request for 13 tickets for friends and family.
‘‘Once it finally clicks for me, I’ll find myself pretty good in this league,’’ Alexander said.
‘‘I just have to continue to work and learn how to be a pro.’’
Cliff Alexander