NBA Draft 2020: James Wiseman Receives a Warm Reception from Warriors’ Steph Curry

After several rumors that the Golden State Warriors wanted to trade down in the draft, it looks like they were unsuccessful and ultimately decided to stick with their pick. The Warriors picked former Memphis center, James Wiseman, with their No. 2 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft.

The 19-year-old 7’1 rookie played only three games at Memphis this year. However, in just those three games, he averaged 19.7 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3 blocks per game, and shooting 76.9% from the field. Thus, he was considered one of the best players at Memphis, but his brief stay with them made him a bit of a mystery.

It looks like the Warriors couldn’t ignore what an elite athlete Wiseman is. And they couldn’t help but show their excitement in welcoming their new teammate. Draymond Green was the first in line to make Wiseman feel at home. He wrote, “It was destined! Congrats and welcome.” 

The Warriors’ forward, Eric Paschall posted, “Welcome to the mob!”

Former NBA Champion, Kendrick Perkins also chimed in on the celebrations. He wrote, “I see a lot of KG in James Wiseman!!! Great pick @warriors.”

Stephen Curry is thrilled to have James Wiseman on board

In 2018, Wiseman was a part of Stephen Curry‘s Under Armour camp. The two had gotten clicked with the Larry O’Brien Trophy that the Warriors had won that year. Curry posted that picture on his Instagram and gave his own warm welcome to the young star.

NBA Analyst, Skip Bayless also heaped praises on the rookie and gave his suggestions on what he needed to work on. Bayless said, “I didn’t see a lot of James Wiseman, but I liked what I saw. Sooo long. So athletic for his size. Such touch. Now he just needs to put on some muscle and play more to his strength – dominating the paint. He doesn’t need to be so three-point conscious at his age.”

With Klay Thompson‘s injury scare, there is at least some good news for the Warriors. The Warriors desperately needed a center, and they have found it in Wiseman. Will he be the pick that helps them make another run at the championship?