USA Today via Reuters
Jan 10, 2021; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors center James Wiseman (33) dunks during the first quarter against the Toronto Raptors at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Jan 10, 2021; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors center James Wiseman (33) dunks during the first quarter against the Toronto Raptors at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
After an underperforming 2019-20 NBA season, the Golden State Warriors were awarded the number two overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. Using the pick, they selected an exciting prospect in James Wiseman.
Despite not playing many college games, the 19-year-old center was expected to be a lottery pick. The Warriors placed their trust in him and so far, he has reposed that trust. He is averaging a solid 12.0 points per game, along with 1.1 blocks.
It is quite clear that with a little guidance, Wiseman could become a long-term star for the Warriors. Although everything is working out perfectly for the big man right now, the Dubs were not quite sure about drafting him in the first place.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Warriors president reveals his first thoughts on James Wiseman
USA Today via Reuters
Jan 6, 2021; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors center James Wiseman (33) has the ball knocked out of his hands by Los Angeles Clippers forward Serge Ibaka (9) in the third quarter at the Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Golden State Warriors president of basketball operations Bob Myers has done a great job in keeping the team a contender for several years now. But in a recent report by NBC Sports, Myers said:
“We didn’t necessarily have him at the top before. In the end, he was our favorite guy. James [Wiseman] is on a little bit of a shorter leash sometimes — a little bit of pressure. It will be good for him in the long run.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Just looking at Wiseman’s game, one can tell he has huge potential. But to tap into that potential, it’s necessary for the Warriors to be patient with him.
Additionally, there is also a risk of him injuring himself if the team is not careful with the big man. Despite all these things, when asked about his goals, Wiseman said:
“I want to be an All-Star, win MVP, win some rings, be one of the best players in the league. I want to become a Warrior forever.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The Dubs are one of the most competent franchises in the NBA right now. They know how to treat their players and evidently get the best out of them. Furthermore, veteran center Draymond Green is the perfect mentor for Wiseman.
James Wiseman will be looking forward to absorbing as much as he can from him and hopefully someday lead the Warriors to an NBA Championship.
