This year, the Golden State Warriors will more or less look like the same core team that took the league by storm. However, they will now have an adrenaline injection with the entry of James Wiseman, who they picked at #2 in the NBA Drafts 2020.
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Ever since July, there were rumors that James would most probably fall in the lap of the Warriors. Many viewed him as an equivalent to Marcus Smart and thought he would be a great addition to the Warriors who want to win the title back.
How did the Warriors react to Wiseman’s selection?
James was emotional and thanked God first after learning the news. The big man ensured that he mentioned the Splash brothers in his post-draft speech. He showed how much he has always respected their game.
James Wiseman was overcome with emotion after the Warriors picked him at No. 2 🙏 #NBADraft pic.twitter.com/YX4JCPeoGh
— ESPN (@espn) November 19, 2020
Steph welcomes Wiseman to the Warriors 🙏 pic.twitter.com/uFwF5h6O6I
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) November 19, 2020
James Wiseman on his new point guard: "I have a great relationship with Steph. Obviously I went to his camp (while in high school). He taught me a lot about the game of basketball, gave me a lot of information. That's my guy."
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) November 19, 2020
It was destined! Congrats and welcome @BigTicket_JW pic.twitter.com/nf4JkGI9pe
— Draymond Green (@Money23Green) November 19, 2020
GSW’s third-best player, Draymond Green, had put his vote on James’ name before anyone else did. Even today, Green was one of the first to respond after the good news broke.
James Wiseman can be an efficient rim guard to the Warriors. Without Andre Iguodala and Shaun Livingston, the Warriors needed a playmaker and now they have one. James is poised to create some stir by being the space creator and facilitator to the exceptional shooters that Klay Thompson and Stephen Curry are.
James speaks about playing with the Warriors
The rising star knew about Klay Thompson‘s recent lower leg injury and sent his prayers to Klay.
James Wiseman: "All prayers to Klay, my teammate. He'll do just fine."
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) November 19, 2020
James Wiseman said he spent part of this long layoff watching NBA film, including studying how the Warriors play: "Watching concepts. Being coached by Penny Hardaway and Mike Miller, I was already in an NBA system."
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) November 19, 2020
Wiseman also revealed how the Warriors were always on his mind and how much he admired their playing style. He is of Rookie of the Year caliber who can take off substantially from the first year itself, unlike Giannis Antetokounmpo who took his time. James is a self-believer and carries no doubt about his calling.
James Wiseman: "Rookie of the year is something I do want on my list. But I just want to be the best player I can be and learn as much as possible."
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) November 19, 2020
The 19-year-old with a 7’6” wingspan averaged 19.7 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.0 blocks, and a field goal of 76.9% per game. His size, rebounding skills, shot-blocking, and athleticism will be the key differentiator. The Warriors are hungry to make a comeback. Head coach Steve Nash will surely help James Wiseman contribute big time in the title contention.
