H o m e A r t i c l e A r c h i v e L i n k s A b o u t U s ... O t h e r Jalen Rose: Funk Soul Brother
Words Stan Eng
Jalen Rose. Now there's a name that was destined for pro stardom after stellar high school and college careers. But it hasn't been easy. In a roundabout way, Rose has carved out a fine NBA career to fulfill the promise expected from him.
Jalen Rose was a highly-regarded 6 ft. 8 in. swingman from Detroit who landed at the University of Michigan in 1991 as part of one of the best recruiting classes ever in college basketball. What transpired from that point on to become the Fab Five is well
documented. This groundbreaking group was led by Rose, who originated the black socks and baggy shorts look, which is the precursor to modern-day basketball fashion. Brash and cocky, Rose played out of position handling the point for this high-powered squad because of his versatility. His offensive game was a study in contrasts. Going to the hole with his unguardable height, he was silky smooth with old-school drives and pull-ups in the lane. From the perimeter, however, his lefty shot-put was awkward and certainly not textbook, but effective nonetheless. If teammate Chris Webber's game face was a scowl, Rose wore a smirk. Full of confidence to take on any comers, Rose always met the challenge and even spiced it up with some trash talk in your face.
After two productive years and two trips to the NCAA championship game, Webber left for the NBA and that paved the way for Rose to become The Man in his junior season. Rose took the reins and flourished. Showcasing pro talent with flair and excellent size, I was quite surprised that he was not selected higher in the NBA draft that season. Picked 13th by the Denver Nuggets, his fashion sense made another splash when he strutted to the podium in an unforgettable pinstriped get-up. | |
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