Golden State Warriors rookie Brandin Podziemski discusses breaking into the starting lineup, his journey from college to the NBA draft, the science of his left-handedness, challenges of cracking a lefty team, and the challenges rookies face on a veteran team like the Warriors.
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Quick takeaways
Brandin Podziemski credits his belief in himself and his competitiveness to the influence of his parents and growing up around African American communities.
Brandin Podziemski reflects on the pressure of playing as a rookie for the Golden State Warriors and being expected to contribute right away.
Deep dives
Rapid Rise from Santa Cruz
Rookie Brandon Pajemski shares how he and Trace Jackson Davis quickly went from expected time in Santa Cruz to becoming rotation players for the Golden State Warriors. Through injury and suspension, they found opportunities to showcase their unique skills and contribute to the team on and off the court.
Unorthodox Path to the NBA
Pajemski discusses his decision to transfer from Illinois to Santa Clara during his college career. He wanted to play in a system more suited to the NBA style of play and felt that the WCC was the perfect fit. He explains how the Big Ten's slow-paced half-court offense limited the development of certain skills that are crucial for the NBA level.
Confidence and Progression
Despite not being on draft boards a year ago, Pajemski remained confident in his abilities and was motivated to prove himself. He credits his belief in himself and his competitiveness to the influence of his parents and growing up around African American communities. He also discusses how he always wanted to play defense and would strive to prove himself against more experienced players.
Challenges and Growth with the Warriors
Pajemski reflects on the pressure of playing as a rookie for the Golden State Warriors and being expected to contribute right away. He acknowledges that it's not just about Steph Curry carrying the team, but that everyone takes pride in contributing to winning. He also discusses the team's recent improvement and how the veterans have helped him adjust to the NBA game.
Golden State Warriors rookie Brandin Podziemski joins Chris Haynes and Marc Stein to talk about breaking into the Warriors' rotation (and starting lineup) in his first pro season, playing his way into the first round of the NBA Draft after a humble start to his collegiate career and goes in detail with the guys on the science of his left-handed-ness, his favorite lefties and the challenges of cracking Stein's exclusive annual All-Lefty Team.