Nelson plans to put on a show at high school

Duke's DeMarcus Nelson is ready to showcase his talents to NBA scouts.

But first, he wants to put on a show at Havelock High as part of the Atlantic Coast Conference All-Star Barnstorming Basketball Tour.

"The most important thing is to give the people a show and talk to the fans," Nelson said. "I think it's a great event for fans in some smaller towns to see the players from the ACC in person."

The ACC players are scheduled to play a team of former high school standouts at 7:30 p.m. April 23 at Havelock High School.

Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. VIP tickets, which include a dinner/reception with the players after the game, are $25.

A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales benefits the athletic programs at the high school.

Nelson will be playing with Quentin Thomas of North Carolina, Gavin Grant and Chad Williams of N.C. State and Cliff Hammonds of Clemson, among others.

He said playing alongside former ACC adversaries does not pose a problem.

"The one thing is that all the players respect each other, no matter which team we play for," he said.

Nelson said he is preparing for the June 26 NBA draft and will be heading to a draft camp to work out in front of NBA teams next month.

The 6-foot-4 shooting guard who averaged 14.5 points per game for the 28-6 Blue Devils this past season said he has been mentioned as a possible second-round draft pick.

"Obviously, that could change," he said, adding that his agent has had contact with several NBA teams.

The California native said playing for Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski taught him a lot about life and basketball.

"He always talked about being prepared and what it takes to be a champion," he said.

For now, Nelson is just happy to be playing basketball and preparing for the future.

"I'm so blessed to be in the position that I am," he said.

For more information on the game, call Havelock High School at 444-5112.