Former SDSU star Baylor Scheierman drafted by Celtics

BROOKINGS, S.D. (KELO) — Former SDSU standout Baylor Scheierman became the ninth former South Dakota State Jackrabbit to hear his name called in the NBA Draft as he was selected 30th overall by the Boston Celtics Wednesday night.

Scheierman had one scholarship offer coming out of high school… SDSU. After three seasons in Brookings, he transferred down I-29 to Creighton, where he received all-America recognition. Two years later, he’s a first-round NBA Draft pick.

“It takes a tremendous amount of hard work,” SDSU head coach Eric Henderson said. “It takes a tremendous amount of trust and self-belief. And I’m just I’m super proud of him. He never wavered. And it’s just really, really exciting.”

Scheierman started just three games his freshman year, averaging six points and two assists in 20 minutes a game. Two seasons later, he posted more than 16 points, nearly eight rebounds and 4.5 assists on his way to claiming Summit League Player of the Year honors and guiding the Jacks to an undefeated conference season and championship.

“The improvements and the amount of work that he put in to improve his game, I wasn’t going to doubt him,” Henderson said. “You could see not only his self-confidence, but his game and his body continue to develop.”

Now the Aurora, Neb., native will be joining the reigning NBA champion Celtics, but Henderson believes he’ll assimilate perfectly.

“I think it’s a terrific fit,” Henderson said. “I think the Celtics are a team that really values connectivity and selfless basketball and valuing each other. And that’s what Baylor does.”

Scheierman will have a chance to hit the court before the season begins next fall with the NBA Summer League, which is in July.

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