Hours after getting tricked by Stephen Curry’s brother, 21YO Dallas Rookie gets real about Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving: “It’s easier to guard…”

The Dallas Mavericks‘ rookie player is excited to play alongside Kyrie Irving and Luka Dončić, two of the league’s star players. The Mavs’ latest addition to the team is no stranger to basketball. Growing up with parents who played basketball in college, he’s had a ball in his hand since he could walk.

The 4th NBA alum had excellent mentors and coaches throughout his life. From his parents to the NBA Academy, the 24th pick by the Kings (traded to the Dallas), couldn’t be more ready for a promising career. Disciplined and mature beyond his 21-year-old self, the Canadian native is getting ready to give it his all this season. 

O-Max looks forward to learning from Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving

The official page of the Dallas Mavericks shared a heartwarming tweet on how much O-Max values the practice sessions. “Every practice I am learning how to guard them better, help them take tougher shots … those guys are two elite scorers … so when it gets to the games it’s easier to guard the other guys. ”

Prosper, with an impressive wingspan of 7’1, was one of the biggest standouts in the 2023 NBA Draft Combine in Chicago. O-Max first caught the eye of Nico Harrison during the Big East Tournament, according to Eddie Sefko (The Sporting News).

“Part of the reason I went to the Big East (tournament) is they had the best players that were going to be undrafted ... Thankfully, we were already on him (O-Max) so I think that gave us a big (advantage) from everybody else.”

The Mavericks’ defense kicked it up a notch

The Dallas Mavericks had an awful defensive rating last season. Therefore, it’s natural they will focus on getting their defenses up. O-Max’s defensive versatility is his best attribute. His contest shot is something he’s extremely proud of.

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In an interview with Bryan Kalbrosky of For The Win, this confidence is clearly seen, “A lot of people don’t even shoot 3-pointers when I’m guarding them … I can bring that defensive identity to a team that maybe hasn’t had a good defense.”

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This level of skill, confidence and energy is something the Mavericks could use now.