The New Kid in Town
Written on October 24, 2007 – 5:28 am | by bcourtney |

Mark Price. Kenny Anderson. Travis Best. Stephon Marbury. Jarrett Jack.
Who will join the starting rotation of talented point guards that have left Georgia Tech’s basketball program for the NBA?
Meet Javaris Crittenton. The 6-foot-5 rookie from Atlanta may be new to Los Angeles, but he is no rookie to the game. Playing basketball since he was five years old, the former “Mr. Georgia Basketball” led Georgia Tech to an NCAA Tournament berth as a freshman in 2006-2007. With his penetrating dribble, quick hands on defense, and all-around game, it is no coincidence that this 19-year old was drafted with the 19th pick by the Lakers as their No. 1 selection in 2007. An avid follower of Magic Johnson, arguably the best point guard in NBA history, it is appropriate for Crittenton to start his professional career under Johnson’s watch. Some of Magic’s first words to Crittenton included, “I am looking forward for you to bringing ‘Showtime’ back.” While Crittenton admires how Magic carries himself on and off the court, and how he is “both a professional and an entrepreneur,” Javaris may not realize he has some Magic qualities in himself as well. Leaving Georgia Tech after his freshman year in college was the first clue that Javaris meant business. He knew his game was “fit for the NBA,” and after praying and discussing the pros and cons of the NBA world with his family, he made the decision. “I followed my heart,” he explained. Javaris’ values are also evident both on and off the court. Like a true point guard, he says he places individual goals “second to team goals” and that his basketball philosophy is “all about the team.” How will Javaris fit into the guard rotation with point guards Derek Fisher and Jordan Farmer? Only God and Phil Jackson know. “It’s up to the coaches,” Javaris says, “All I can do is what I can do. They see me working hard, so hopefully I can improve my minutes, but it’s all about the team.” His selflessness is also backed by how he spent his first Lakers’ paycheck. “I bought my mom a house.” For a young man who won’t turn 20 until New Year’s Eve, it should be a Happy New Year for Javaris Crittenton. 
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