Nov. 6, 2006
Princess Anne, Md. - Tim Parham has a tattoo on his arm with the NBA logo and the words, "The Dream" scripted underneath it. Since he was a little boy the 6'9 240lb. former University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) Basketball standout has wanted to play in the NBA. Today that dream is one step closer.
After exhausting his collegiate eligibility Parham had that pro goal in mind. He entered the NBA draft after his junior year at UMES only to pull his name out and return for his senior season. He had hoped to be drafted after his senior year but the All-MEAC performer wasn't; and a decision had to be made.
Tim turned down several offers from overseas teams to follow his goal of playing in the National Basketball Association. He instead went and worked out for some NBA teams. He made the Chicago Bulls Summer League roster and worked out for the Golden State Warriors. Now he has a chance to make the team.
The Bakersfield Jam of the National Basketball Developmental League, the NBDL for short, drafted Parham on November 2, 2006 in the fifth round, with the 59th overall pick. In the NBDL the teams are affiliated with the NBA teams and Bakersfield just happens to have an affiliate with the Warriors.
"When I went to work out with the Warriors, they told me how impressed they were with my work ethic. The coaching staff saw me arrive early, stay late and do extra work. I think they could tell how much I want this," Parham said.
Parham was a standout at UMES, earning Second-Team All-MEAC honors in his senior season and leading the conference in rebounding and double doubles. He also led the MEAC in the latter his junior year. He finished his final year averaging 14 points and 10.3 rebounds. Overall Parham stands fifth in the MEAC All-time records for rebounds in a game with 19. He also holds the seventh and ninth sports.
He played three seasons at UMES where he honed his game to get where it is today, playing professionally.
"I think this is a stepping stone for me. I know I need some work. I know I need my skills sharpened; this league gives me the chance to do that. NBA scouts on a regular basis can see me and can track my progress. I am thrilled to have this opportunity," added Parham.
The Bakersfield Jam's season kicks off on November 26th, 2006 against the LADefenders, the affiliate of the Los Angeles Lakers and current team of former Hampton standout Devin Green. Ironically, Parham wasn't the only former Hawk to be drafted, Justin Bowen, who transferred from UMES after one season in 2001-02. He went just one pick before Parham.
"I can't wait, this is a great opportunity," said Parham. "I leave this week and get started in training camp, I can't believe my dream is this much closer to coming true"
