So when Allen told Eric what to do during his workout for the Sixers at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Eric took note.
"He told me to just pay attention to details," said Eric, a graduate student. "That and have patience. If things don't work out right away, still have patience, because it is going to come through. I think that's the best advice a friend can give me."
Eric, who has another workout scheduled, with Denver, this week, has already worked out for Dallas, Golden State, New York, and Washington. He is coming off a season that was reduced to 19 games because of a knee injury. He averaged 9.0 points, 8.8 rebounds and 2.1 blocks, all career bests.
Eric, who on Saturday declared his right knee completely healed, worked out alongside 6-10 Kyle O'Quinn, who shocked college basketball when he scored 26 points and grabbed 14 rebounds to lead 15th-seeded Norfolk State to a first-round upset of second-seeded Missouri in the first round of the NCAA tournament.
Northwestern forward John Shurna (6-9), a first-team all-Big Ten selection; Georgetown's Henry Sims (6-10); and Mississippi's Terrance Henry (6-9) also worked out for the Sixers.
The Sixers have the 15th, 45th, and 54th picks in the June 28 draft.
Allen was selected with the 50th pick overall. Eric is not regarded as highly as Allen, who wound up starting in 15 games for the Sixers this season. Allen also appeared in 12 of the Sixers' 13 playoff games.
Allen attended the workout to support his friend. He thinks Eric, who is not projected to be taken in the draft, can play with him in the NBA.
"He runs the floor well, he's strong, and he can rebound," Allen said. "If you are a big man and you can do that, that helps your chances."
Courtney Witte, Sixers director of player personnel, said bringing in Eric was not just a courtesy accorded to local players.
"Typically we like to take a look at local players, but he's a legitimate player because he's very long, he can block shots and he's a tough kid," Witte said. "He's got a chance."
Note. The Sixers will work out Neumann-Goretti High School's Scoop Jardine (Syracuse) and Doron Lamb (Kentucky) on Sunday morning.
Contact staff writer John N. Mitchell at jmitchell@philly.com. Follow him on Twitter @JmitchInquirer.
