Draymond Jamal Green, the controversial and explosive power forward of the Golden State Warriors, is in his 12th year in the NBA. In all these years, he has proved himself to be a crucial factor in the team’s success. Often, when talking about the resurgence of the dynasty that the Dubs are, the ‘Splash Brothers’ pretty much headline the news. But talk to any hardcore Warriors fan or the team itself, and we will be sure to hear all the little things that usually go unnoticed become major attributes for their success.
For all his faults, Green’s experience as a veteran will be a treasure trove for every young hooper out there. And that’s exactly why Andscape’s Marc J. Spears decided to pick the brain of Draymond Green, along with a few other vets of the league. One question was about the advice the 34-year-old would give at the rookie transition camp. His answer was simple.
“Find you a great vet because there’s no one that’s going to show you more, teach you more, mentor you more, care more than a great vet.” To explain himself further, Green cited himself and rolled back the calendar to his days with Jarett Jack.
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When Draymond Green was Jarrett Jack's rook!
Draymond averaged 2.9 PTS, 3.3 REB, 0.7 AST his first season. He became an NBA Champion in his 3rd, All-Star in his 4th & Defensive Player Of The Year in his 5th. pic.twitter.com/3BfzluX53t
— Ballislife.com (@Ballislife) December 6, 2021
Jarrett Jack took a young Green under his wing when he was finding his footing. Jack “laid the foundation” and for that, the 4x champion was always grateful. “I still talk to Jarrett Jack … That is one of the most important things a young dude can do”, claimed Green. And we can be sure that even now, the “rookie” in DrayMagic still gravitates to his mentor in tough times.
He said as much, “If you’re lucky, you have great vets, which I’m a lucky one.” He wasn’t kidding. Besides Jack, the 2017 DPOY was lucky to have a diverse group of teachers – Andrew Bogut, David Lee, Jermaine O’Neal, and Richard Jefferson. The defensive acumen that Green carries was in large part thanks to Bogut’s training.
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How does Draymond Green’s advice benefit rookies like Bronny James and Adama Bal?
In his advice to the youngsters looking to find their footing, Dray gives the reason for his luck. While the organization is in part responsible for providing great vets, the most experience one can gain is when a rookie takes it upon themself to hunt for one. With Bronny James having a tough and under-par season at college while simultaneously entering the NBA draft, this is solid advice.
Although he has the best mentor in LeBron James, the fact that he is his father would still be a hindering factor for a complete development. There will always be an emotional quotient attached. On the other hand, if he were to get someone else to train him and show him the ropes, it would be a different experience. One that will allow him to create his own identity. After all, it was one issue everyone had with the 19-year-old.
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As for Adama Bal, he is projected to be a second-round pick. The youngster had quite a decent season with the Santa Clara Broncos averaging 14.4 points per game. However, scout reports say that the French prospect’s skills are raw and while he has the skills to have a breakout season, Bal’s inexperience could hamper that. With the right mentorship, the 20-year-old can be remarkable.
Read More: Kyrie Irving Aghast By Draymond Green’s IQ; Delves Into Warriors’ Winning Formula