Charles Boozer Hopes to Break Into NBA D-League; Heads For Open Tryouts

After taking time to contemplate his future, following a collegiate career at Iowa State, stints overseas, local semi-pro league ventures, and an NBA Summer League gig, Charles Boozer is hopeful of his next destination: the NBA D-League.

The brother of two-time NBA all-star and well known veteran Carlos Boozer is remaining hopeful and keeping the hope alive as he looks to resume his basketball career.

"I'm probably the most ready I've ever been in my career. I want to give my last shot all I have," he said during a recent conversation with RidiculousUpside.com. "I'm very confident I'll not only be able to make it, but compete and contribute to any team."

Some D-League teams have already begun the open tryout process, with others set to host local auditions this coming weekend. Boozer is gearing up to hopefully try out for a number of teams, including the Santa Cruz Warriors, Reno Bighorns, and Los Angeles D-Fenders. First up will be the Sioux Falls Skyforce, who are hosting an open tryout in the home of the affiliated Miami Heat.

It was in the heart of South Beach not too long ago, where the younger Boozer met up with brother Carlos to discuss his next move. The NBA vet offered plenty of encouragement.

"I was down in Miami with him recently, and [Carlos] was supporting me. We were discussing whether I should take one more shot or not," he said. "We were talking with his agent and thought about several teams, thinking about the best route to go."

Having his brother constantly in his corner has been a blessing, Boozer said. "He's been my best friend, my mentor, my everything. He's been telling me that I'm still young and I could make it. I have to try. He knows I have the mind that you need to play the game," he said of his brother's input. "Carlos has just been very positive with me and hoping that it all works out."

Boozer has worked out with his NBA sibling quite a bit this summer. And though, should he eventually hit the minor league hardwood, it'll be his first D-League season, the Iowa State product believes he could also warrant consideration for a call-up to The Association soon after.

In Boozer's favor is the fact that he's always been around high-level and elite competition while playing the game. In addition to growing up and competing with his brother, Boozer is also close to Kyrie Irving and has previously worked out with former NBA coach and long time trainer John Lucas. He draws upon them all for inspiration, recognizing their respective paths, and the hardships they overcame as he ponders his own continued path.

As he looks to earn his keep, Boozer's objective will undoubtedly be proving he can serve as that of more of a floor general, after being more of a swingman in college.

I have a lot to contribute. I've been able to work on transforming from a strict shooting guard to a point guard. I want to be able to provide all of things a team needs in a point guard," he went on to explain. "I want to be able to do that and play with the best in the game. I've been pleased with the results I've been getting. It's exciting."

"I believe in myself. I can be a point guard. I have the talent and the drive necessary," Boozer concluded. "There's a good combination there. I'm prepared for it, so just give me the ball."