NBA draft dreams become reality

Just months after graduation, Florida Southern College alumni Kevin Capers (2015) has found a new home court outside of Jenkins Fieldhouse.

The 22-year-old All–American Guard who graduated this past spring was recently selected in the third round draft pick to join the New York Knicks’ developmental team, the Westchester Knicks.

Capers was one of only eight NCAA Division II players that were selected in this year’s draft. He was the fifty-seventh pick of the seventh round of the draft.

“I didn’t want to go overseas,” Capers said. “Most NBA players go overseas and then come back. I just wanted to stay here.”

Capers, a Florida native, stayed close to home for college and didn’t want to stray too far from the US in his debut as a professional basketball player.

“I’ve never left home, my hometown is Winter Haven. Why not come to the Developmental League? If I play good, then there’s a better chance that I’ll get called up,” says Capers.

Capers has a 1-year contract with the D-League and is now residing in White Plains, N.Y.

As a developmental player, Capers attends training camp for two to three hours a day and competes with other players to see who will be on the official roster for the upcoming season.

The former Moc made his professional debut on the opening night of the NBA Developmental League 2015 season as a Westchester Knick in a game on Nov. 12. Capers is one of just ten other players on the team.

Capers played over a minute in the second half of the game against the Maine Red Claws. He had one turnover and one foul.

A natural born athlete that has played basketball ever since he could remember, Capers dreams big. One of his main goals includes making it to the NBA and being one of the top players someday. For someone who has played basketball for over 18 years, this would be the opportunity of a lifetime. His other goals are to be able to play against the best of the best and to get more experience out of every chance that comes his way.

Capers has a “great support system” that includes former teammate Tyler Kelly, who recently became assistant coach, and his former Coach Linc Darner.

“I’m glad that I had the opportunity to attend Florida Southern. Not only did my professors teach me, they taught me real world lessons. The communications department, Dr. Cat Eskin and Coach Darner were all there for me,” Capers explains.

Capers looks forward to watching the Mocs action from N.Y.

“They definitely have quality players. They also have a lot of shooters and they just have to put it all together. I believe we have a strong team here. It should be a great year for them,” Capers said.

Capers and the Kincks will face Sioux Falls on Nov. 20. The game is available for live stream via Youtube.