“Get On His A** From The Get-Go”: LA Clippers Player Reflects On How He Prepares For Games

As fans are eagerly waiting for NBA action to return, it seems like the days are going by pretty quickly. In less than a fortnight, the league will be making its comeback after a long hiatus. Teams like the LA Clippers from the west look extremely strong and motivated ahead of the season’s restart. 

Prior to the season’s suspension, the Clippers won seven of their last ten games. The team was on a successful run until the pandemic put a halt to the NBA. Powered by new signings Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, the Clippers look revamped and might even be on the way to their first-ever NBA finals this season. 

Another player that fits perfectly in the Clippers’ puzzle is Patrick Beverly. Ever since signing with the team in 2017, the point guard has effectively worked on his defensive game and is one of the best in the league. On the latest episode of ‘The JJ Redick podcast,’ the hosts invited Beverly to have an hour-long chat with the 32-year-old about several topics including his approach to an NBA game. 

How does LA Clippers star Patrick Beverly suit up to face an opponent?

Patrick Beverly has plenty of experience in the league. Over the years he has grown up to become one of the most technically sound defenders in the NBA. To reach that level, one has to dedicate himself to the game and stay devoted to learning every aspect of it. 

The hosts asked Beverly how he approaches an opponent/player before a game and the level of importance he gives to scouting reports over his natural instincts. Here is what the Chicago native had to say: 

“The team’s scouting report is a quick header from when I walk in of course. I get two scouting reports,” Beverly said. “One from the guy who does my body and one from the guys who does my skill. But before them, I’m watching the last three games on TV.  And I’m looking at body language.”

“When I’m watching, I’m watching the game as a fan,” Beverly informed. “But I’m also looking at body language. I’m also looking at, ‘Okay, he just missed a couple, where’s his body language at?’ because I got them tomorrow.”

Beverly mentioned how he would notice the past shooting forms of his opponents and approach them based on the level of confidence they might carry. “I might be having Dame [Damian Lillard]. You know Dame, he went through two scoring forms. It is pretty unlikely he’ll go through three. Cool so, now him, I’m going to get on his a** from the get-go. I’ll adjust my scouting reports based on that,” Beverly said. 

Patrick Beverly is ready to compete in the NBA bubble

Every team is gearing up to return to competitive action. It will certainly be a challenging task to stay inside the bubble, follow all the rules and compete to win the championship. But Patrick Beverly is motivated as ever to win the title this year. 

Inside his hotel in the Orlando bubble, Beverly has arranged a few pointers on his table to remind himself of his beliefs and projected achievements. NBA Central posted a photo of Patrick Beverly’s recent Instagram story, in which you can see the Bible, a glazed doughnut, and a few sticky notes on his table. He’s locked in and ready to compete! 

The LA Clippers begin their campaign by taking on rivals Los Angeles Lakers on the opening night of the league’s restart. It will be their first big test and if they pass it, the team would flying high on confidence for the remainder of the season.