…That’s right. We’ve got eyes everywhere. Last night in D.C., Lawson had a draft watch party (I think that’s what you call it) He was one of what seemed like a dozen point guards picked by Minnesota, but was later traded to Denver.

Anyway, former Diamondback staffer Jason Koebler – on very special assignment for his internship with Washingtonian Magazine – was in attendance and generous enough to give us these tidbits about Gist and Steve Francis, who made appearances.

You’ll recall that Gist was selected by the Spurs in last year’s draft before heading to play pro ball in Europe. San Antonio still holds his draft rights.

Clinton, Md., native and hated Tarheel point guard Ty Lawson went No. 18 in Thursday’s NBA draft, and Lawson threw a VIP party at D.C.’s Park on 14^th nightclub to celebrate the occasion. His guests included former Terp standouts James Gist and Steve Francis, oh, and I was there too.

Francis flew in from Houston specifically for the event according to Jeff Fried, who represents both Lawson and Francis. Stevie Franchise showed up well after Lawson was selected, and the two posed for some pictures while Francis offered Ty some fashion tips (“You need to buy yourself some Gucci”) and some words of encouragement.

Gist, drafted last year by the San Antonio Spurs No. 57 overall, has played basketball with Lawson since the two were in elementary school. Last year the Terp didn’t make the Spurs roster and played with Pallacanestro Biella in the Italian professional leagues. But Gist said this year he’s determined to have a reunion with his longtime friend.

“Sunday I’m going down to San Antonio to start working out,” he said. “Hopefully I get to play against Ty again. I’m going to play for the Spurs this year.”

Gist said he likes the way the Terps’ program is going, after making the NCAA tournament last season. “I always follow those guys and I always support them. They have something to build off of last year,” he said.

He also took a shot at No. 10 pick Brandon Jennings, who played for Lottomatica Roma after deciding to forego college. “I don’t ever like to say anything bad about anyone and I wish him the best of luck,” Gist said. “But we did beat them in the playoffs last year.” Let’s see if Gist is in the league next year for a rematch.

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