When Warriors center James Wiseman speaks, the NBA listens.
The 19-year-old rookie spoke to reporters ahead of Golden State’s game against the Pacers on Tuesday night, and he had a lot to say. He definitely covered the basics — such as expressing adulation for his fans, though they’ve unfortunately yet to see him play in-person due to the pandemic.
Here’s the expression of love from Wiseman to Dub Nation, courtesy of Drew Shiller of NBC Sports Bay Area.
It’s always good to tell those you love that you indeed do love them, so mission accomplished there. By early indications from digital posts and message boards (since fans can’t attend), the feeling is mutual.
Wiseman also touched on the fact that he’s been playing less at the end of games, also according to Shiller. You’ve got to hand it to Wiseman, though. He knows nothing is given, and all is earned. He doesn’t seem daunted whatsoever by sitting the bench a bit, especially because the Warriors are winning. He knows his time will come.
But this last tidbit is a kinda juicy. When asked which player, active or retired, he’s most want to seek advice from, Wiseman merely mentioned the best player to ever live (arguably) and none other than former Warriors forward Kevin Durant.
So … I guess Stephen Curry will have to do? That’s wild that Wiseman mentioned Durant, and even put him above Jordan on this theoretical list. It speaks volumes about how dominant the Warriors were during their dynasty, when they had Durant, Curry and Klay Thompson as well as Draymond Green.
And that just makes it even more impressive that Wiseman is playing so well, though he’s still a teenager. If he’s already rubbing elbows with world champions and playing alongside them, what’s name dropping Michael Jordan and placing him No. 2 on your list? It’s nothing to the 7-footer, who clearly has the potential to reach his own incredible heights in the NBA.
(Photo credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports)
Bay Area Sports Hub 