July 20
Everyone is marveling about Kwame Brown's shooting range and unbelievable quickness for a 6-foot-11 player. But let me tell you what excites me about Brown, the No. 1 overall pick of the Washington Wizards.

	The Wizards made Kwame Brown the No. 1 overall pick.

When I called the Sonny Vaccaro Roundball Classic, featuring the nation's best high school players, I said it on ESPN during the game, and I'll say it again: Brown is the most skilled of the high school stars who were being evaluated for the NBA draft.

Now, after seeing him play NBA summer-league ball on TV, I was totally impressed with his poise and presence on the floor. What separates Brown from most young kids is his amazing stature and the way he carries himself, with the unique presence that stars have.

Brown has a chance to be a special player. He has a solid cast of advisers around him. Starting with the best of the best, Michael Jordan, and Doug Collins, a masterful communicator, Brown is head and shoulders ahead of most. If Brown follows their instructions and listens to the positive things they have offer, there is no telling how good he can be.

You can't teach size, baby. And his combination of size, strength and superb quickness will be a big plus against many big men in the NBA. Obviously, he needs to improve in many areas before he can be discussed in the class of the great young players, such as Kevin Garnett, Tracy McGrady and Kobe Bryant. Two areas are learning the art of moving without the basketball and playing off-side defense. He will improve with the expertise he will receive from the Wizards coaching staff.

As reported by ESPN's own Andy Katz after his first press conference, Brown's poise in handling the media shows he is already following Jordan's example. His eye contact and simple way of answering questions are special for someone who has yet to play his first professional game.

All in all, the youngster from Brunswick, Ga., has made an impressive debut. He gets a solid A, baby. If he continues to grow -- and indications are that he will -- Brown could immediately contribute 15-20 positive minutes a game during his rookie year.