Everybody knows that no person is perfect. But still, there are plenty of self described “perfectionists” in the world.
Count Warriors rookie center James Wiseman among them. His widely-known penchant for perfectionism must make his rookie season more difficult; it’s been far from ideal, though with the proper perspective, his initial campaign doesn’t look so bad.
Wiseman’s stats rank in the top five in the NBA among rookies in several major categories, though he’s just 12th in minutes played. Some of those close to Wiseman worry he is losing perspective, however, per the San Francisco Chronicle’s Connor Letourneau.
A self-described perfectionist, Wiseman has become so consumed with chasing greatness that his closest confidants worry he is losing perspective. His mother, Donzaleigh Artis, and sister, Jaquarius Greer, remind him daily that he is in a league of grown men. Struggles were inevitable.
Connor Letourneau/San Francisco Chronicle
Wiseman’s perfectionism and quest for greatness certainly has some positive qualities. He’s focused, determined and he knows he has the physical tools to make it happen.
But perhaps he shouldn’t try to make it happen. Maybe Wiseman would be better off staying in the present and letting it happen. It’s a fine line, and with Wiseman still just 20 years old, it’s good that he has people around to support him.
Plus, it can’t help that the Warriors themselves appear uncertain of how to coax greatness from Wiseman. He began the year in the starting five, then he was sent to the bench, and now he’s a starter again.
Ultimately, I believe Wiseman was the right pick for Golden State and will be a top-flight NBA center. But it might take longer than anybody wants. Perhaps not. As long as he gets there, however, the journey will be worth it. Ultimately, it’s best he doesn’t lose sight of the here and now, and realize that no path to greatness is perfect.
(Photo credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports)
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