It goes without saying that basketball prospects often go on to hit the D-League hardwood in hopes of further honing their skills, all while attempting to catch the eye of an NBA executive or two.

With the likes of LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Paul George, and others already gracing the big league stage, The Association isn't necessarily in need of more star player. Those who can light it up and score in bunches have already made it to that level.

Taking that into consideration, those who are in D-League work on their defensive instincts, court-vision, passing ability, etc.

Count former La Salle stud Tyrone Garland as one of those very candidates to do so this coming season.

Having recently finished his collegiate career, Garland proved himself to be the type of player with plenty of energy and agility who can beat his opponent off the dribble. There's plenty of pep in his step.

In his junior year, Garland led La Salle to its first Sweet 16 appearance in decades, all while averaging 13.1 points (on 42% from the field) and 1.2 steals per contest.

As he looks to begin his career as a professional athlete and embrace a new role as a combo-guard of sorts, Garland has entered the 2014 NBA D-League Draft, a source tells RidiculousUpside.com.

The first step to ultimately breaking into The Association is hitting the D-League hardwood. It'll be there where Garland can further his skills as a guard who also creates opportunities for his teammates. He hopes to have a chance to put that potential to do so on display.