World News – USA – Warriors’ Steve Kerr softens expectations for James Wiseman: « You can’t rush it »

When rookie center James Wiseman rolled around a screen and dug an open sweater with an almost textbook-like shape in the first game of loss on Friday at the Portland Trail Blazers, he impressed more than just the coaches and teammates from Warriors.

« Everyone can see he’s a very talented young man, » said Trail Blazers head coach Terry Stotts ahead of the rematch at the Chase Center on Sunday night. « He will be a very good player in this league for a long time. ”

These glimpses of Wiseman’s abilities turned out to be the feel-good story of the Season of the Young Warriors. Despite blowout losses for NBA title contenders and injuries to the Golden State core, Wiseman – the No.. . 2 Selection in the November NBA draft – gives hope for the future.

Even so, head coach Steve Kerr warns viewers not to expect too much from the 19-year-old, who only played three college games in Memphis before leaving the program over an eligibility dispute and not getting the typical lead-up to his rookie season because of the pandemically shortened low season.

Without the summer league and after missing the training camp and all three shows in the preseason because of a positive coronavirus test, Wiseman will play in just his sixth game in 13 months on Sunday.

While the 7-footer has shown remarkable skills – like simply creating 3-pointers or dribbling the length of the court to complete with SportsCenter-worthy dunks – it has often gotten out of position on defense as well is slow to respond to crime.
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« The speed of the game is the whole problem for any newbie, and even more so for big guys, » said Kerr. « I’ll keep reminding people that James is so young and raw and is seeing all this stuff for the first time. ”

While Kerr preaches patience, he and other trainers praise Wiseman for his humble approach and willingness to learn and process concepts. Ahead of the loss to Portland on Friday, Kerr said he plans to add more games for Wiseman.

A few minutes later, on the first game, two-time MVP Stephen Curry set a screen to open Wiseman. But when Wiseman rushed through the game, his right foot was on the line. Instead of three points, he received only two points.

« There’s just one process every rookie has to go through and ultimately the game slows down, » said Kerr. « It’s only a matter of timing, but you can’t speed it up. ”

Golden State Warriors, Stephen Curry, Damian Lillard, Draymond Green, NBA