PJ is Handling Things OK

Ron Bailey, Publisher

January 16, 2009 – During the recent Caron Butler Classic, junior swingman PJ Lockridge illustrated Virginia’s Heat Academy must agree with him; the Racine, Wisconsin native dropped 19 points in Heat’s 76-63 win over Princeton Academy. Those led exploits brought him first team all-event honors.

Based upon a post game interview, looks are not deceiving in Lockridge’s case.

“I’m doing well at Heat” shared PJ of his prep school. The school’s coach, Jason Niblett confirmed it, noting “PJ’s been a great kid to have in the program. He’s a hard worker, that’s done everything we’ve asked”.

Continuing that thought, Niblett said “He’s improving everyday”, as Lockridge “has played the four (power forward) all his life”, but is now becoming a solid swingman.

Lockridge (right) with his cousin Caron Butler. PJ stated may major "in business and technology" in college, while hard work has allowed him to "improve since the summer".

Standing 6’6” and weighing over 200 pounds, that’s music to recruiter’s ears. Presently, Auburn, Oral Roberts, Winston Salem State, West Virginia and Miami have all expressed various levels of interest, with the first three tendering scholarship offers. PJ will likely pick a school that likes to as he put it “Run and gun”, one that gets up and down the floor, thereby utilizing his athleticism and ability to defend in space.

Expanding that list for Lockridge will be more work on his ball handling and other perimeter skills. Just ask his cousin, Caron Butler, National Basketball Association All-Star.

“He needs to continue working on ball handling, outside shooting and free throws; all aspects of the game. And stay humble” said Butler, who added for emphasis “I continue to work on my game!”

If you get the impression Butler is involved in his cousin’s life, you’re right. “He gets on me a little bit” said a smiling Lockridge of Butler. Though being related to the present Washington Wizard does present some pressure for PJ, he wouldn’t trade it for anything, as Caron provides invaluable guidance and experiences. That includes playing with the Wizard’s last summer, of which Butler noted “He held his own”.

“I’m just trying to teach him the game” said Butler of the on- court lessons, though he also imparts off-the-floor wisdom, including putting “him into good hands”.

It would seem Niblett and Heat, along with Lockridge’s travel team last summer, Hoop Magic, fit that bill. With his ongoing development, who knows, somebody could one day describe Butler as PJ’s cousin.

One thing is for sure, Lockridge is putting in the work to make it happen.