Chet Holmgren’s journey from Minneapolis to top-3 NBA Draft pick

Minneapolis native and former Minnehaha Academy star Chet Holmgren is expected to be the 1st or 2nd pick in tonight’s NBA Draft.

We spoke with Chet’s parents and high school coach to relive some of the great memories from over the years.

***Click the video box above to watch our feature story on Holmgren***

Orlando holds the 1st pick, Oklahoma City the 2nd.

The Magic taking a long look at Holmgren probably isn’t a surprise to another past Orlando star player. Memphis coach Penny Hardaway — the No. 3 pick by Golden State in 1993, before getting traded to the Magic — said as the college season was winding down that he got to know Holmgren well during the recruiting process, even while realizing that he was heading to Gonzaga instead.

He raves about Holmgren’s potential.

“He’s all about competing, he’s about excellence, he’s tough. … I marvel,” said Hardaway, who spent his first six NBA seasons with the Magic. “You see a Kevin Garnett, handle the ball, shoot, make passes, and I’ve always loved his game. He’s just a terrific player. Every part of his game I love. He’s just a winner.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report