When it comes to sports, heroes often shape the dreams and aspirations of young players, and NBA is no different. For Draymond Green, it was Shaquille O’Neal. However, one conversation turned his idolization of Shaq upside down. It also led to a transformative shift in his game. Recently, Green spilled the beans on the life-changing words of wisdom that opened his eyes and pushed him to adapt. It ultimately molded him into the influential player we know today.

Let’s dive into the words that changed Green’s mindset during his early days coming into the league.

Green’s idolization of Shaquille O’Neal and a wake-up call

In a recent episode of Podcast P, Green acknowledged that he had the privilege of being mentored by incredible coaches, including his uncle and high school mentors. But it was Duran “Speedy” Walker who truly left an indelible mark. Walker, currently scouting for the Detroit Pistons, not only founded the Family Basketball Team but also became a mentor to Green during his senior year.

Green added, “Shaq was my favorite player growing up. So,?I’m going to the block thinking I’m about to move people like Shaq. He like, hey man you ain’t Shaq’s size, like you shooting guard size bro, so you gonna have to shoot the ball. You got to get yourself in shape man you too fat. Right and it really he really really changed my life because he changed my perspective.”

Those words hit Green hard and sparked a profound realization. Walker urged him to focus on developing his dribbling, shooting and driving skills. He introduced him to a whole new world of possibilities. He carried this attitude into the Golden State Warriors?team, as he carved a playing style around great shooters like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson.

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Embracing change for growth

Green’s transformation began when he took Walker’s words to heart. Green recognized that his natural abilities could be put to better use in a different role on the court. The confidence he received from his coach is apparent in him stealing the show at the free agency this off-season.

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That transformative conversation with Duran ‘Speedy’ Walker became a defining moment in Draymond Green’s basketball journey. It shattered his Shaq-sized dreams but paved the way for a deeper understanding of his true abilities. Green’s willingness to adapt became instrumental in his pivotal role with the Golden State Warriors.