James Wiseman had some impressive moments at the beginning of his debut season, but he still needs to learn a lot if he wants to reach his high ceiling.
Andrew Wiggins knows all about the expectations of being a top choice. The Warriors striker was selected with the No. 1 overall choice in the 2014 NBA Draft. Wiggins was a good player during his five seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves, but he did not become the star of the franchise that many considered him and ended up being sent to the Golden State last February.
Wiggins won the Rookie of the Year award during his inaugural campaign, something Wiseman is aiming for, and the Kansas product gave the 19-year-old center some advice on how to pursue the award and how to become the star he should be alongside. by Steph Curry and Draymond Green.
“Keep playing strong, playing smart and looking to improve,” said Wiggins. “He’s close to amazing guys, close to Steph and Draymond, to legends. So he’s going to learn a lot. It’s a process. There are a lot of ups and downs in that debut season, but when you find yourself and be confident, the sky is going to be the limit for him. There is so much he can do and how rough he is – the things he does, he doesn’t even know what he’s doing. So when he finds out everything and becomes who he should be, he’s going to be a superstar. “
Over 22 games, Wiseman showed the athleticism, versatility and perspicacity to score that left the Warriors salivating when he fell for them as number 2 in the draft. After playing just three games in Memphis, Wiseman is still in progress and the Warriors are bringing it at their own pace. He had incredible games followed by learning experiences in the NBA, which is part of being a rookie.
Wiseman has a chance to make a statement at the Rookie of the Year race Friday, when he faces LaMelo Ball, that the Charlotte Hornets chose a choice after Wiseman, at the Chase Center. Ball and Wiseman will be forever connected as their NBA careers evolve. Although Ball silenced all his doubts early on, how Wiseman will develop will determine whether the Warriors made the right decision when passing Ball.
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As for Wiggins, he is taking his own advice and enjoying his time alongside Curry and Green with his eyes on a big goal for the next season, when Klay Thompson returns to the fold.
“It’s great to play with Steph and Dray,” said Wiseman. “Guys who have several championships, know the game of basketball, the legends of the game. Just learning from them, being by their side, fighting, competing every day and this is the end result. I hope we can continue pushing and running for the ship, especially when Klay returns. “
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