While the warriors NBA Summer League 2024 The team continues Their undefeated careerOne of Golden State’s biggest stars has an important message for players vying for a permanent role on basketball’s biggest stage.
During a halftime interview during the Warriors’ 92-82 win over the Chicago Bulls in the Summer League on Sunday, Draymond Green revealed the inspirational words he shared with the Golden State Warriors in the Summer League, offering insightful advice on why doing the little things is so important for any player hoping to make the jump to the NBA.
“It’s really just about telling them what gets you on the court in an NBA game,” Green explained. “Everybody’s always going to say, ‘Man, you gotta score a touchdown,’ but the reality is Steph Curry’s going to have the ball. LeBron James’s going to have the ball, James Harden’s going to have the ball. You’re not going to have the ball, so you better practice doing the little things now, because that’s what people are going to look for.”
“Defense is what keeps you on the court in the NBA. Rebounding is what keeps you on the court in the NBA, and you can control those things. And just being a good teammate.”
Summer League star Daequan Plowden is a perfect example of Green’s advice working, with the 25-year-old earning a two-way contract with the Warriors after a number of strong performances highlighted by his willingness to work unselfishly within the flow of the game.
Golden State Summer League coach Anthony Vereen echoed Green’s sentiments, praising Plowden’s ability to function as a player despite being able to carry a larger load, which in turn led to the dynamic forward earning his first NBA contract.
While the NBA is the ultimate goal for most players participating in the Summer League, Green also highlighted that there are other professional leagues that have scouts present, and that the annual showcase is a tremendous opportunity to showcase skills that can open up a number of opportunities to play basketball at the next level.
“Finally, we have to realize that it’s not just the NBA teams that are watching you, or this team,” Green said. “There are 29 other teams, but there are also European scouts, so make sure you’re performing well in all aspects.”
After a three-game winning streak in the California Classic, Golden State began Summer League play with three straight wins in Las Vegas, largely due to the unit’s ability to come together cohesively and handle the small details Green mentioned.
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