National men's coordinator says Richards joining NBA is good for Jamaica

National senior men's coordinator Rick Turner says Nick Richards could inspire Jamaicans to take up the sport of basketball in the future.

On Wednesday, Richards was drafted to the NBA in the second round by the New Orleans Pelicans and immediately traded to the Michael Jordan-owned Charlotte Hornets.

Turner says Richards' progress from the University of Kentucky to the NBA, is an eye opener for young players on the island. Meanwhile, another Jamaican, Romaro Gill who went undrafted, has signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Utah Jazz.

That means if he impresses in training camp, he will be given a contract for the 2020/21 season.

If not, then he will represent the Salt Lake City stars in the NBA "G" league.