Sixers rebuild takes big step in right direction

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Brett Brown and the Sixers' rebuilding project has taken a big step in the right direction over the last week.

They've drafted Duke big man Jahlil Okafor and have scored a trade with Sacramento that includes shooting guard Nik Stauskas.

Stauskas is the 8th overall pick last year. He was lights out during his college days at Michigan, unless they were playing Duke.

"My first memory is of him losing to Duke at Cameron Indoor Stadium. He's a great shooter and I love being around great shooters - that allows me to pass around and makes it hard for the opposing team to double team me," said Okafor.

"I think we are starting to turn around the organization. Right now with these new picks we got and everybody coming together, I think we'll start winning soon," said Jerami Grant.

Oakafor is not only excited to play with Stauskas but he's determined to help turn this franchise around.

Since being drafted last Thursday, the 3rd overall pick has been at the Sixers practice facility nearly every day starting at 630 on the morning - even before the coaching staff gets here.

"I wanna be the best I can be that's why I work as hard as I can. I've been walking around Center City a little bit, taking in the fans - they're so passionate, they're so ready to win. It's a great feeling for me and that's why I wake up at 6:00 to be in the gym by 6:30. These fans really want to win - it's exciting," said Okafor.

Sixers' fans can see that hard work in action next week when Okafor debuts in the Summer League.