I think it’s the hardest part for about 80 percent of the guys in the NBA. ... You try to find the right fit and the right team with the right system and the right coach at the right time. If you get an opportunity, you’ve got to try to take advantage of it. – Jimmer Fredette
Note: This is the first of a two-article series covering the Jimmer Jam Basketball Camp.
PROVO — After four seasons in the NBA, former BYU star Jimmer Fredette is still looking for the right fit for his style of basketball.
“I think it’s the hardest part for about 80 percent of the guys in the NBA," Fredette said. "That’s just the way it is in the NBA, unless you’re a mega superstar. You’re just going to play wherever you go. You try to find the right fit and the right team with the right system and the right coach at the right time. If you get an opportunity, you’ve got to try to take advantage of it."
It seems Fredette hasn't quite found that right fit after four seasons in the NBA while playing for three teams. Still, Fredette remains as optimistic as ever as he talked about the upcoming year.
"My agents are talking to several teams and are trying to find the best fit. We’ll figure it out sometime in July," Fredette said. "I’m excited for it and ready for a good year."
Jimmer's advice for Tyler Haws
Fredette also had some words of encouragement for former BYU teammate Tyler Haws. Haws has worked out for several NBA teams and hopes to hear his name during the NBA draft next week.
"I talked to him the other day at Kyle Collinsworth’s wedding. He seems to be doing really well. I’m excited for him," Fredette said. "I told him just be you out there. They’re looking for you. Just be you. Do what got you here and control the things that you can control; don’t worry about the rest."
Haws broke Fredette's career scoring record at BYU last season. The two played one season together before Haws left on a LDS mission the Philippines.
Jimmer on the upcoming BYU basketball season
Fredette also commented on BYU's upcoming season with his usual optimism and excitement.
"I come here every summer so I keep contact with the coaching staff and the players here. I’m excited for their season," Fredette said. "Coach (Dave) Rose will have them ready. He always does. They’ll play a fun style of basketball. They have some young guys on the team that will have to step up and play well, but they also have some veterans, specifically Kyle (Collinsworth) and Chase (Fischer). It will be a fun season to watch."
BYU fans can only hope the Cougars can be as fun to watch this season as it was when Jimmermania swept the nation five years ago.
Lafe Peavler is a contributor for the Deseret News. Follow him on Twitter @LafePeavler.