One of Arizona’s best returns for a homecoming

When most people think of the cream of the crop when it comes to High School Hoops in Arizona, the first name people think of is Mike Bibby. The second, Jerryd Bayless.

Back when Bayless was an underclassman at St. Mary’s he was considered one of the best players in the state. By the time his four years were up, everyone knew he was special.

Bayless spent one season with a Kevin O’Neil coached Arizona Basketball team in 2007-08 along with the likes of Chase Budinger, Jordan Hill and Nic Wise. Bayless in that season averaged 19.7 points a game (third in the Pac-10) and four assists.

In the 2008 draft, Bayless was drafted by the Indiana Pacers 11th overall but then traded to the Portland Blazers along with Ike Diogu for Jarrett Jack, Josh McRoberts, the draft rights to Brandon Rush and cash considerations.

Bayless then had a short stint in New Orleans before landing in Toronto where he looks to be settling into a solid role at back-up point guard behind Jose Calderon.

Bayless always enjoys returning home to play the Suns as he has many friends and family who come out to see him play.

Though he has missed some time due to injury, so far this season for Toronto Bayless has been effective when in the game, averaging close to seven points per game.