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RICHMOND, Ky. – Since the conclusion of the spring semester, Mike Rose has been focused on taking his basketball game to a higher level. This past Monday, Rose, along with three other former collegiate players, worked out in Washington, D.C., for the NBA’s Washington Wizards.

“This is what I have been working for ever since I started playing basketball,” Rose said. “I’m glad I was able to get my foot in the door. I wouldn’t say it was the best workout I have ever done, but it was a good first step.”

Rose spent an hour with Villanova’s Scottie Reynolds, Marquette’s Jerel McNeal and UT Martin’s Lester Hudson going through a variety of shooting and ball-handling drills. Washington Wizards’ head coach Flip Saunders ran the workout while several staff members were on hand to evaluate and assist in the drills.

The 6-3 guard from Naperville, Ill., was complimented on his three-point shooting ability following the workout and also given a few pointers for improvement in his game. Rose hopes to get one or two more workouts with other NBA teams before the NBA Draft on June 25.

“This is a tremendous reward for Mike to have the opportunity to work out for an NBA team,” EKU head coach Jeff Neubauer said. “It’s rare for any collegiate player to get one workout with NBA scouts. He earned this opportunity with his consistency and his ability to improve throughout his career.”

If the NBA does not come calling this season, Rose plans to continue his playing career overseas. Rose has never been to Europe, but would be thrilled to play in Italy or Turkey.

EKU concluded the 2008-09 season 18-13 overall and 10-8 in the OVC. This was the fifth straight year the Colonels have posted double-figure league victories. Only Murray State (six) has a longer active streak.