It was in the middle of All-Star Weekend. In the middle of an interview, Scoot Henderson learns from a journalist that Duop Reath has just been extended by the Blazers, and he is screaming with joy! His enthusiasm is pleasing, and says a lot about the successful integration of the Australian interior, selection teammate of Matisse Thybulle.
He himself pinched himself when he learned that his “two-way contract” had been transformed into a three-year contract, valid until 2026. “My agent called me and said, 'This is what they're offering.' I thought it was crazy.” he says. ” But it does not change anything. The process remains the same. We have to keep working. Even though I am grateful to them, we must continue to work. »
27-year-old “old rookie”, Duop Reath is clearly the great story of this transition season for the Blazers. Born in South Sudan, he arrived with his family in Australia at age 9, and first played football. And then, he grew up, turned to basketball, and decided to make it a career when he arrived in the United States at LSU. When he left college, he traveled around quite a bit, with stints in summer leagues and experiences in China and Serbia.
The happiness of Chauncey Billups
And then, at the end of the World Cup, he accepted a modest “two-way contract” in Portland, and it was the injury to Robert Williams III that allowed him to settle into the rotation.
“I like it when people get what they deserve,” likes Chauncey Billupsthe coach of the Blazers. “Talking to him was perhaps the most satisfying thing that happened during vacation. He is so grateful. That's what this project is all about: being able to bring in someone who's trying to get into the league, get them into Summer League and progress them until they get an NBA contract. It's incredible ! »
Same statement from Scoot Henderson, who explained his enthusiasm: “He’s my friend!” It's one of my favorite moments when a friend, buddy and teammate gets the fruits of their labor. »
