Billy Tubbs applauds Thunder for getting Kendrick Perkins

Perkins often scouted NBA teams on television during his senior season.

"Sometimes I look at certain players, and I know I could do what he's doing for his team," a then 18-year-old Perkins told The Associated Press. "If he can get there, then I know I can get there. The way I look at it is if they're saying I'm ready for the NBA, then I must be ready. Right now, I don't know. In April, I guess we'll all sit down and decide what to do."

Perkins was taken in the 2003 NBA Draft, the same year LeBron James was chosen No. 1. Perkins was viewed by many as a potential lottery pick. The Sporting News had him listed as the No. 4 prospect.

Perkins wound up being selected 27th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies, who traded him on draft night to Boston, where Perkins remained with the Celtics until Thursday's trade.

"Tell Kendrick congratulations, and I send my best. Also, tell him to send me some tickets," said a laughing Tubbs, who resides part-time in Norman.