Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, April 27, 1993 TAG: 9304270116
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: B-1 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. LENGTH: Medium
"I thought it was time to go on to the next level," said Rogers, a 6-foot-7, 235-pound forward from Durham, N.C.
Rogers averaged more than 21 points this year for the Demon Deacons, picking up numerous awards along the way. Besides ACC player of the year, he also was a second-team All-American.
In three seasons at Wake Forest, Rogers scored 1,720 points, an average of more than 19 a game.
The decision to turn pro was a difficult one to make, he said. He talked at length with coach Dave Odom several times before making up his mind about two or three weeks ago.
"To my teammates at Wake Forest and my family and friends, it gives me a lot of sadness to tell you I'm leaving," Rogers said during a packed news conference. "But I'm doing what I think is best for me and my family."
The prospect of a rookie salary cap in the NBA had no effect on his decision to enter the draft this year, Rogers said.
Before making up his mind, Rogers talked with Chicago Bulls star Michael Jordan, who left North Carolina early to turn pro. He also sought out Larry Johnson and Tyrone "Muggsy" Bogues, both of the Charlotte Hornets.
Rogers led the Demon Deacons to a top 10 ranking and the round of 16 in the NCAA tournament. He was first-team All-ACC in 1992 and 1993.
Teammate Randolph Childress said he thought Rogers made the right decision.
"He's already proven himself in the best basketball conference in the country," said Childress, who attended the news conference along with several other Wake players. "I told him he should do it."
by CNB