July 1, 2005

Columbia, S.C. – Former South Carolina basketball players Carlos Powell and Rolando Howell will play in the Long Beach Summer League for the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers as announced by their agent Dan Tobin today.

“Carlos and Rolando are both going to participate with the Lakers Summer League team in Long Beach,” said Tobin. “They will have the opportunity to be seen by the Lakers management and the entire league during this time. At the conclusion of the league we will be able to further discuss what both players options are.”

Howell recently signed a new contract with a team in Italy, but he has the option to join an NBA team this next year as well. If so, that contract would be null and void. Tobin also pointed out play in the summer league is in no means an NBA contract of any sorts.

“We are extremely proud of Rolando and Carlos,” said USC Head Coach Dave Odom. “Rolando had an excellent first year in Italy. He is deserving of the interest he has received from several European club teams for next year. Rolando has worked hard and deserves everything that has come his way.”

“Carlos’ stock rose tremendously during the regular season,” continued Odom. “It rose even more once he began going to different NBA camps and work-outs. Though neither Rolando or Carlos were drafted, both are on the right track to show the NBA teams what they can do through their summer league play as well as various Europeon club teams that remain interested in them.”