Launched in the NBA in a very particular context, in the midst of the Covid-19 crisis, the 2020 Draft is still young and therefore difficult to judge. However, a first truth emerges: the best players are not those who were chosen highest. Only Anthony Edwards, or even LaMelo Ball, have confirmed their status in the Top 10. The strongest symbol of this observation: James Wiseman.
Selected in second position, behind the back of the Wolves, the interior failed to make his place in Golden State, weighed down by a serious injury his first year then by the impatience of the Warriors, champions in 2022. His arrival in Detroit then made it possible, initially, to find statistics, but that did not hold up.
Interior is only 23 years old but his career has still not taken off. Which doesn't seem to dampen his morale. “It may sound crazy but these problems have made me stronger as a human. It built my character, made my mind even stronger”, he analyzes.
“A young person with high potential” still to be polished
Despite very disappointing performances, the Pacers nevertheless bet on him this summer (two years of contract, with the second as an option, and a small salary) and perhaps that, in a competitive group, but without disproportionate pressure on his shoulders , he will be able to grow slowly but surely.
“Clearly. I am making full progress”ensures the interior. “Over the last two seasons, I was injured for a long time with Golden State. It's nice to be able to come here to develop myself and become the best player I can be. »
This will also involve playing time, which is not certain for this 2024/25 financial year. Because in front of him, at the pivot position, there is Myles Turner then Isaiah Jackson. For now, the former Pistons will only have a few crumbs to show off. But in fact, he will be less expected, therefore perhaps more liberated…
“In my opinion, he remains a young man with high potential. He is still very young, he is 23-24 years old. We need to forget our recent past, what happened before. He had a very good summer with our staff, with his teammates,” says his coach Rick Carlisle. “I have always been a fan of James Wiseman,” adds Myles Turner. “It’s already passed the visual test: it’s huge. He’s 2m13 tall, he’s very athletic. He just needs an opportunity and, as soon as he gets it, he's going to take advantage of it. »
Another element that can help him shine: the Pacers' style of play. It's a team that runs and James Wiseman, as we've seen when he's healthy, is an interior player who moves very well, more comfortable in spaces than on set plays. He therefore has the weapons to be comfortable in this system. “I am a big guy who can run, who is mobile. The Pacers play very rhythmic basketball so I will adapt quite well”he announces.
