Wendy Haun
Now that the National Basketball Association Draft has come and gone, all former Eastern Kentucky University standout Mike Rose can do is wait.
Rose, who had pre-draft workouts with both the Milwaukee Bucks and the Washington Wizards, has been living in Chicago while weighing his post-collegiate options.
“I’ve been working out on my own and getting ready for what comes up next,” Rose said. “I’m hoping to get on some summer league team. Other than that, I’m weighing my options about going overseas and seeing whatever comes first and the best option for me.”
Lately, Rose has reconnected with former Eastern Illinois player and high school teammate Billy Parrish. Parrish, who recently signed to a European squad, was working out with Rose to keep in shape.
During Rose’s two NBA workouts, he said he got a lot of positive feedback, but was told he needed to work on his conditioning.
“They’re letting me know I’m a good player and a great shooter,” he said. “I love hearing that. But, they tell me certain things I need to improve. My conditioning could have been better. They just told me to stay in shape and continue to work on my game and ballhandling.”
Rose said he is preparing himself to go overseas. Despite taking courses in Spanish while at EKU, he said he would like to play in either Turkey or Italy.
“It wouldn’t be my first option, playing overseas,” he said. “I would rather be here and playing in the league, but if I have to go overseas, I wouldn’t mind. Whatever’s offering the most benefits for me, as far as financially and the area itself, is where I’ll go.”
