For the folks who have been wondering about Shipp's health, it looks like Josh is rounding into shape this summer. From BBR:
Shipp scored 18 points on 8 of 13 shooting for Hanks CTS in a losing cause against the Franchise Boys, 77-76.
The UCLA forward displayed a variety of offensive moves, hitting his first shot of the game from just inside the three-point line, and then displayed NBA-level moves, getting into the paint while taking hits from defenders but still managing to finish.
"I'm working on driving to the basket," Afflalo said. "Some one-on-one things in the open space. I enjoy the competition out with the guys, because everybody's pretty good."
Collison will assume point guard duties with Farmar gone. However, there is a chance Afflalo could handle the ball and set up the half-court offense more in his junior season because coach Ben Howland now only has three scholarship guards at his disposal.
The return of sophomore Josh Shipp, who missed most of last season after having arthroscopic surgery to correct chronic right hip problems, also serves to change the complexion of Afflalo's role in the Bruin offense next season.
"I think we'll be running (the court) a lot more because Darren's a lot quicker, and also having Josh back in the lineup makes us a faster team," Afflalo said. "There's also a good chance I will be playing some back-up (point guard) if it's necessary. So I am preparing for some different things."
Although he never really left UCLA, Afflalo is happy to put all the NBA Draft speculation behind him and get back to the basics of playing basketball.
"It's fun to be back here (at SayNo) and play with the guys," he said. "Waiting for the season to start is actually the tough part."
Can't wait to see these guys take the court in the Maui Classic.
GO BRUINS.