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Tuesday, May 29
Starting a new basketball chapter
By Brendan Haywood
Special to ESPN.com
Editor's note: Brendan Haywood provides ESPN.com a first-person diary during the days leading up to the NBA draft on June 27
|  | | Brendan Haywood |
I have been constantly on the go since my playing days at UNC ended. So, let me take a moment to bring you all up to speed with everything.
Unfortunately my career, and our season, ended on a down note at Carolina. Then again, only one team walks away from March Madness truly happy. It's tough to try to explain how I feel. I loved my days as a Tar Heel (don't worry, I will always bleed Carolina Blue) and I am sad that that part of my life is over. But this is also a very exciting time for my family and me.
The agent recruiting process was a wild experience. I talked with a bunch of agents and companies and it was interesting to see what each of them had to say. It's such a tough decision, but one that I took very seriously. After all, who I chose would have a big role in my career. I included my mom in the whole process because she has been a big part of my life. I value her opinion and wanted her there with me like she has been my entire life.
In the end, I signed with Octagon – A company that both my mom and I felt very comfortable. I spent a week in the Washington D.C. area to meet some of their staff. But more importantly, to begin my workouts in preparation for the draft with a physical trainer and a basketball coach. It was a hard week of workouts and hopefully it will all pay off come draft day.
Last week, I started visiting potential NBA teams. It reminds me of the college recruiting process. But this time, I don't get to make the final choice.
I spent a day in Houston working out for the Rockets. Then I was off to Orlando to meet with the Magic. This week, I head to Boston and Detroit. The workouts for both teams (Houston and Orlando) were similar for the most part. I am trying to stay as focused as best I can because I don't know which team will end up picking me. I can't think or worry about which team has what pick and start playing head games with myself. I am just trying to do my best for each team I visit. I just have to trust that everything will work out in the end.
Oh yeah, graduation. It was such a great feeling putting on that cap and gown and walking across the stage in front of my family and friends. I also got to share a moment with Vince (Carter), who came back for graduation after leaving school early. I respect him for being so committed to coming back for it. Boy, did he take some heat. But I am glad he did what he had to do.
Well it is time for me to head to the gym. I look forward to staying in touch with you throughout the draft process and the season.
P.S. To my fellow Carolina alumn Stuart Scott – great speech!
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