Brown logs many miles toward landing NBA spot

DAYTON — This may be the only time in Derrick Brown’s life he doesn’t mind getting called for traveling.

After eight grueling weeks on the road, he finally arrived home on Wednesday, June 24. But he won’t be here long. Two nights, then back on a jet. Destination: The NBA.

The former Xavier University star from Chaminade Julienne High School is expected to be selected in tonight’s NBA draft.

Judging by his recent schedule —18 private workouts for NBA clubs since late April, including a run of six straight days that ended with the Charlotte Bobcats on Wednesday — Brown is a man in high demand.

“I haven’t been home in a month,” he said via cell phone. “It’s been a long process, going here, going there, from city to city. But I’m blessed. I’m in a fortunate situation. A million people would trade to be in my shoes. I’m grateful for the opportunity.

“I’ve literally been cross-country four or five times. But it’s a business now. So there are no excuses. You’ve got to be ready every single time out. I feel like I’ve improved my stock, showing the organizations I can be ready even during adverse conditions.”

Brown worked out for Portland, Utah, San Antonio, Sacramento, Memphis and Charlotte from Friday to Wednesday. The team that pulls the trigger will get an explosive small forward whose best basketball is ahead of him.

“My strength is my versatility,” said Brown, who will celebrate with family and friends at a Dayton hotel. “Even though I have a lot of potential to get better, I’m not a project. I feel like I can come right in and contribute to a team with my versatility, athleticism, smarts and knowledge of the game.”