Murray: "Of course I believe I’m the best player"

NEW YORK – Jamal Murray was given a chance to back out of his prior statement about him being the best player available in the NBA draft.

But there was no backing down for the former Kentucky combo guard on Wednesday.  He could go anywhere from three to eight in Thursday's draft at the Barclays Center.

Ben Simmons is likely to go first overall to the 76ers. Brandon Ingram is probably will go second to the Los Angeles Lakers. Murray could be an option if the Sixers are able to get a second Top 8 pick.

But …

"Of course I believe I'm the best player," Murray said. "I've put so much work into this game. I know my abilities. I'm so confident in myself that I don't see anyone else being better than me. Many other players will say that, but coming from me, I just know what I've sacrificed and how hard it is."

The Canadian is often praised for his shooting, ballhandling, and ability to create shots off the dribble. The former Orangeville Prep (Canada) standout was the MVP of the 2015 Nike Hoop Summit, which featured the top American high school players against an international team. He finished with 30 points and five assists in the World Team's two-point victory.

Then, despite being the second-youngest player in the Pan Am field, he averaged 16 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.4 assists for the Canadians. At Kentucky, he averaged 20 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists and was a third-team all-American.

Murray became the first Kentucky freshman to score at least 30 points three times. His 35-point outing tied Terrence Jones (2011) for the most points by a Wildcats freshman.

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