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Jerry West has left his mark on the NBA forever.
Not only did he have a successful playing career, but he has also enjoyed success as an executive, most recently in helping build the Golden State Warriors into what they are today.
Now West is with the Clippers and he is excited about having Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a player he was instrumental in bringing to LA, with the team.
In an interview with Clutch Points, West had this to say about Shai:
“Shai’s just going to be a tremendous player in this league. He’s so young, he’s got instincts that set him apart from other players. he’s going to be a really good player. Obviously, Shai is going to attract a lot of attention the way he plays. He’s a terrific young player for a kid so young.”
Gilgeous-Alexander wowed UK fans and scouts alike last year with his ability to finish at the rim, facilitate and run the offense, and his exceptional defensive instincts. He continued to showcase his talents in the NBA Summer League where he averaged 19 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4 assists, 2.3 steals, and 1 block per game while averaging just under 28 minutes of action in each contest.
“It’s pretty cool [to have West here],” Gilgeous-Alexander told Clutch Points. “He’s obviously ‘The Logo.’ He’s giving me some pointers and stuff like that. Him obviously being a legend is pretty cool, [and I’m] just trying to pick his brain, learn from him as much as possible.”
Gilgeous-Alexander also spoke with The Athletic about how he plans to separate himself from other point guards in the league.
“Because I’m so tall for a point guard, I obviously understand how to use the size,” he said. “But the next thing is still playing low. Guards at this level are obviously faster and stronger and will get underneath me to make it difficult. So playing low and playing at their level will help me.”
And while his defense was one of his many elite skills as a Wildcat, Gilgeous-Alexander hopes to keep developing that talent and also put on some weight so he can guard the bigger, stronger players in the NBA.