With the Lakers missing the playoffs for just the sixth time in franchise history, all focus is on the off-season. The Lakers will be in an interesting position as they continue their coaching search and look to fill out their roster with ample cap space and a lottery pick.
With only a few players still signed on for next season, the front office must evaluate which players they would like to bring back. Over the past season, Jodie Meeks experienced his best year in the NBA. On top of improving his basketball game, Meeks finished the coursework required to earn himself a degree from the University of Kentucky.
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According to Meeks’ Twitter, his graduation ceremony is scheduled to take place Saturday:
Got my Cap and Gown! Ready for Saturday!!! #proudmoment
— Jodie Meeks (@Jmeeks20) May 8, 2014
Meeks spent three years at Kentucky before entering the 2009 NBA Draft. The year after he left, John Calipari took over head coaching duties at Kentucky and has led the program back into national prominence by winning a championship in 2012 and taking the school to the national title game this past March.
Calipari has been linked to the Lakers coaching position, but has denounced the rumors while emphasizing his commitment to Kentucky. Meeks addressed the possibility of playing under Calipari, according to Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters:
Jodie Meeks on hearing Lakers/Calipari rumors: "I was excited maybe that he could coach me, but if I was him I wouldn't leave here (UK)…
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) May 8, 2014
"It's (University of Kentucky) a great place to coach & play. He has it made here." (Meeks on Calipari at his graduation press conference)
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) May 8, 2014
Kentucky will always remain as special place for Meeks. In his two years as a Laker, Meeks has expressed his desire to stay in Los Angeles and will have the opportunity to remain a Laker.
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