Dear NC State fans,

Twitter, Facebook and message boards can be a harsh world. It’s clear that many thought former NC State shooting guard Trevor Lacey should have stayed for his Senior season, and after not getting drafted last night, people feel validated in their disproval. In my personal opinion, this response is shortsighted and ungrateful.

It’s shortsighted because as a fan you don’t look at this situation through Trevor Lacey’s eyes, and aren’t standing in his shoes. He wasn’t ignorant of the fact that their was a high chance he might not get drafted. He can read mock drafts just like you and me. He is an intelligent individual. He knows he’s 24 years old, going on 25. The average span of a professional basketball players career is roughly 5 years. Prospects don’t necessarily become more financially appealing to professional teams as they age.  He knew professional ball overseas was a high likelihood, and he knew he might be more worth their money this year, rather than next year.  He also probably knew that he more than likely wouldn’t be a lottery pick next year if he stayed, but by going and working out for every team this year, he put his face and talent in front of all of them right now, so they would remember him when they have a need in the future.

It’s ungrateful because NC State would not have made it to the Sweet Sixteen this year without Trevor Lacey.  They wouldn’t have finished 24th in the nation without Trevor Lacey.  NC State’s future of bringing in high caliber transfers was brightened by Trevor Lacey.  Future recruits are more likely to come because of the national platform he put NC State on this past year.

Fans think that players are there simply for their pleasure.  When players leave it ruins our hopes for the future and we are filled with “What if they stayed?” questions.  We have to remember that players are filled with “What if?” questions that actually pertain to their lives, and not simply our entertainment.  

Wolfpack fans should be thankful for Trevor Lacey, and they should be supportive of him wherever he goes.  

You have my support and appreciation Trevor,

Matthew Bradham