With the first overall pick in the 2011 NBA Development League Draft, the Los Angeles D-Fenders selected NBA veteran Jamaal Tinsley.
A former first-round NBA Draft pick, Tinsley spent eight seasons with the Pacers and Grizzlies.
“I’m humble and blessed for this opportunity,” Tinsley said.
A two-time Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month with the Indiana Pacers in 2001-02, Tinsley was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team after averaging 9.4 points and 8.1 assists in his first season out of Iowa State. Twice ranked among the league’s top 10 in assists (2001-02, 2002-03) and steals (2002-03, 2006-07), Tinsley has career NBA averages of 9.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, 6.6 assists and 1.59 steals in 436 games (366 starts) over eight seasons.
“Our goal all along with the first overall pick was to take the player who we felt gave the D-Fenders the best chance of winning right now,” said head coach Eric Musselman. “In this case, we were able to do just that with the selection of Jamaal. The guard position was a point of emphasis for us entering the draft, and Jamaal’s extensive experience in the backcourt provides the D-Fenders with a great foundation as we work towards our ultimate goal of winning a D-League Championship.”
Among the players the D-Fenders also drafted was former Seton Hall guard Eniel Polynice, chosen 32nd overall.
