Thursday, December 02, 2004
grounded...for now
About two weeks ago, I broke a rumor; Zam "Buck" Fredrick was unhappy at Georgia Tech and he and his father were considering a transfer.Following up on a call from Buck's AAU coach, Zam Sr. met with a coach of another squad (that, like the Yellow Jackets, had participated in last year's NCAA Tournament) to discuss Buck's misgivings about Georgia Tech. The other coach -- demonstrating both good sportsmanship and a concern for the young man's best interests -- suggested Zam Jr. remain at Tech for at least a little while longer.
Therefore, for now, Zam Jr. is staying put at Tech. But much like Will Bynum (who chose not to transfer from Arizona when rumors of his displeasure first surfaced, only to leave the 'Cats a semester later), Fredrick remains a flight risk. Despite what public reports may lead you to believe.
"Where I came from, everyone knew what I could do, and I know what I'm capable of," said Fredrick, who averaged 34.5 points as a senior and set a South Carolina career scoring record. "I'm ready to get in there and play, but with Jarrett (Jack), Will (Bynum) and B.J. (Elder) I learn a lot from them in practice everyday. I try to pick up a little from everybody to make my game better. If I keep working and getting better, I'll be ready when it's time for me to be the man and run the show."
