Mitty High grad Aaron Gordon realized a dream as the Orlando Magic made him the fourth pick in the NBA draft.
The lofty pick was somewhat of a surprise as many thought the No. 6 to 8 range of the first round was his ceiling.
Gordon quickly donned a Magic cap after his selection to complement a bright, blue suit and a big smile on the part of the personable, ex-Monarch.
"I had to wear something loud, but it's all good," Gordon said on ESPN. "I worked out with Orlando and shot well and did some things I don't think they thought I could do previously. I'm just extremely happy." .
Gordon getting taken among the Top 5 helps erase the memories of 2012 when Gordon's brother, Drew, went undrafted out of New Mexico. Drew also starred at Mitty.
There was no chance that would happen again as the younger Gordon averaged 12.4 points and eight rebounds per game last season for the University of Arizona.
Well-grounded and from a good family, Gordon has always kept things in perspective. But all great athletes have a little swag and Gordon does not lack for confidence.
"If and when I reach my full potential, I think I will be better than everybody (in this draft)," Gordon told Yahoo Sports before the event. "I think I will have an edge."
Twitter was abuzz after Gordon's high selection.
Tweeted Mitty girls soccer coach and teacher J.T. Hanley after the pick: "@IamAaronGordon Orlando just got A LOT BETTER!!! Congrats AG! #monarchpride #boom."
Tweeted Gordon's high school coach, Tim Kennedy, who attended the event in New York: "Words can't express how excited the whole Mitty basketball family is for alum @IamAaronGordon being selected #4 by the @Orlando_Magic."
Offered former Bellarmine College Prep star Grant "Boo" Vermeer who now plays at Navy: "Mad I was never able to beat him once but I have so much respect for he guy. Congrats and good luck @IamAaronGordon."
The explosive, 6-foot-9, 225-pound forward was MVP of the 2013 McDonald's All-American Game and a two-time CalHiSports Mr. Basketball Player of the Year at Mitty. He led the Monarchs to four consecutive section titles and two state championships.
Young for his grade throughout school, Gordon does not turn 19 until September.
