The last week has been a whirlwind in NBA news headlines for Golden State Warriors guard Jordan Poole. He was involved in a physical altercation with teammate Draymond Green at practice last week, which isn’t anything new when it comes to training camp. However, a video leaking that was obtained by TMZ of the scene certainly made it a tougher thing to handle.
Despite the media circus that followed, Poole remained committed to his craft. He was back on the practice court shortly after he was struck by Green, not missing a beat. Poole participated in every practice and game following the incident and played well.
Facing adversity isn’t anything new for Poole, who had a rough start to his NBA career. He was regarded as one of the worst players in the league after the Warriors selected him 28th overall in the 2019 NBA Draft. He struggled to perform, but he didn’t let that get him down. He continued to work hard and that dedication has paid off.
Poole had a career season his third in the NBA, averaging 18.5 points to go with 4.0 assists and 3.4 rebounds per game. In the postseason he was excellent, averaging 17 points on an impressive .507/.391/.915 shooting split. He handed out 3.8 assists and grabbed 2.8 rebounds per game as well.
LATEST NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Jordan Poole, Draymond Green & Golden State Warriors Updates
That has put Poole in a position to sign a lucrative deal this offseason as he is eligible for his rookie extension. As head coach Steve Kerr eluded to, that deal could be agreed to very soon.
“There’s a reason Jordan is who he is right now. Especially considering where he was coming out of Michigan, a late first-round pick, struggling his first few months in the league. There’s a reason he’s in this position, about to sign a big extension, hopefully. He’s just tough. He’s mentally tough and physically tough and ultra confident in his game.”
That toughness has gotten Poole this far and will continue helping him throughout his career. He has worked tirelessly to improve every facet of his game and it is about to pay off with a nice new contract.
LATEST NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Jordan Poole, Draymond Green & Golden State Warriors Updates
The former Wolverine has turned himself into one of the best sixth men in the NBA and has shown that he is more than capable of handling a starting role should one become available with the Warriors.
