The Orlando Magic selected Kentucky swingman DeAndre Liggins with the 53rd overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft. The 23-year-old senior showcased remarkable versatility last season, averaging 8.6 points, 4 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game for the Wildcats.
Liggins entered Kentucky as a point guard, but shifted into more of a swingman role as his skills continued to develop, said Magic President of Basketball Operations Otis Smith. Though not an efficient scorer--he shot just 44.2 percent on two-point baskets--he nonetheless shows promise as versatile defender capable of checking three positions. As a plus, the Nevada native did connect on 39.1 percent of his threes on 2.4 attempts per game.
Liggins' selection makes it two straight seasons the Magic added a Kentucky player via the Draft, they chose center Daniel Orton with the 29th overall selection last season.
As a second-round pick without a guaranteed contract, he faces an uphill climb to make the Magic's roster.
Liggins joins Justin Harper among Orlando's acquisitions tonight. The Magic obtained Harper's draft rights from the Cleveland Cavaliers for two future second-round picks.