Rogers, Grandison and Morton a Step Closer to Timberwolves

Three former Orange County basketball players--Johnny Rogers, Ronnie Grandison and Richard Morton--have cleared one hurdle toward making the Minnesota Timberwolves, but former UC Irvine forward Wayne Engelstad was released Sunday at the end of the team’s rookie and free-agent camp.

Rogers and Grandison, former UC Irvine forwards, and Morton, a former Cal State Fullerton guard, are expected to join the team for training camp this fall.

Rogers has played with the Sacramento Kings (1986-87) and the Cleveland Cavaliers (1987-88).

Grandison played with the Boston Celtics in 1988-89.

Morton played in two games for the Indiana Pacers in 1988-89, and Engelstad spent the 1988-89 season with the Denver Nuggets.