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10 Days After Dillon Brooks Sent Team USA Home Without a Medal, Warriors Legend Addresses His “Crazy” Mentality

Published 09/20/2023, 7:45 AM EDT

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USA Today via Reuters

Dillon Brooks has come to the spotlight like no other player in the NBA. His path to stardom began with a standout performance against LeBron James. Swiftly, he earned the moniker of a villain for his jabs at the King. Regardless, none of the tactics seemed to rattle LeBron James. The Memphis Grizzlies‘ typical approach against him only seemed to ignite him even more. However, beyond his antics, Dillon Brooks holds significant promise as a player. While he may not possess a superstar caliber, he’s undoubtedly a player that teams would covet on their roster.

Brooks entered the league in 2017, having averaged nearly 15 points per game in college. Throughout his NBA career, he has consistently maintained his scoring efficiency. However, Brooks’ contributions transcend ahead of just basketball; he’s willing to put in the gritty work even when things seem out of the team’s favor.

Andre Iguodala mention key factor in Dillon Brooks

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In a recent episode of The Old Man & The Three podcast, JJ Redick engaged in a conversation with Andre Iguodala and Evan Turner. The trio delved into the diverse mentalities and approaches of players, particularly in the realm of the NBA.

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During the insightful discussion, Iguodala highlighted a notable observation. He pointed out that many talented players seem to find contentment in merely reaching the NBA; and lack the burning desire to chase a championship. Furthermore, Iggy asserted that, apart from talent, one’s personality plays a significant role in the NBA journey. While mentioning Dillon Brooks, he remarks, “There are certain guys in the NBA that wouldn’t be in the NBA if they didn’t have that crazy mentality. Or how they view themselves”.

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The NBA boasts approximately 450 players, with each team fielding a roster of fifteen. Amid the constant influx of new talent, it’s evident that departures are inevitable for numerous players. In the conversation, JJ Redick aptly emphasized the importance of understanding the same notion. He believes that being inducted and staying in the NBA are two distinct facets of the league that many fail to understand.

Brooks will suit up for the Houston Rockets in the upcoming season

After a disappointing stint against the Lakers, Brooks has turned the summer in his favor. Marking the pinnacle of his career, he displayed a dazzling performance in the 2023 FIBA World Cup. Despite only being able to secure the bronze, the journey was nothing short of spectacular—notably, the medal game against the USA. In the thrilling showdown, Brooks stole the spotlight; this time, due to his basketball prowess. He led Canada past the USA with a 127-118 victory. Brooks scored 39 points, marking his career high. Furthermore, he shot 12-for-18 from the field and 7-for-8 from beyond the three-point arc.

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For the upcoming season, the Houston Rockets hope that Brooks starts on the same note. Believing early in him, Houston offered Brooks a four-year, $86 million contract prior to his FIBA appearance. To compliment Brooks’ leadership, the Rockets have also added the seasoned point guard Fred VanVleet. Together, Rockets believe that the duo can take over mentorship by adding professionalism to the young locker room.

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Written by:

Saahil Dhillan

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Saahil Dhillan is an NBA Writer at Essentially Sports. He has been writing articles and blogs for 5 years now, including those for a sports brand that manufactures knee braces, for a Red Bull athlete in 2019 and for a documentary of an Ultra Running Coach in 2021. There’s plenty Saahil can write about why he likes basketball, having followed the NBA for more than 10 years, but he is most keen on picking out various offense/defense strategies, on/off-court decisions, roster changes in crunch time and other underrated key elements that leave an impact on the scoreboard.
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Edited by:

Saumya Khanduja