PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - One day after selecting USC center Nikola Vucevic (1st round, 16th) and Temple University forward Lavoy Allen (2nd round, 50th) in the NBA Draft (see related story), the Sixers introduced the two young, big men to Philadelphia.

Sixers’ president Rod Thorn (in center of photo) said the arrival of Allen (left) and Vucevic helps  fill the Sixers’ most pressing need.

“We obviously were a small team and a team that needed some size,” he said, “in particular some size that could play.”

Thorn believes Vucevic offers the most complete package at center.  He says he is also intrigued by the skill level of Allen.

Allen is already well known to Philadelphia hoops fans — he leaves Temple University as the school’s all-time leading rebounder.   He talks about not having to go far to become a pro:

“It’s definitely a great opportunity, having access to my family and friends and my old teammates.  Just having their support, they helped to get me to this point.  Just to have them continue to have my back in the future is a great feeling.”

Hear Ed Benkin’s full interview with Sixers draft pick Lavoy Allen in this CBS Philly SportsPod…

Reported by Ed Benkin, KYW Newsradio 1060

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