Lester Quiñones is absorbing knowledge from some of the league’s most accomplished stars, which is what every aspiring player should do to carve out their path in the NBA. Throughout his early years with the Golden State Warriors to his recent experiences with the Philadelphia 76ers and the New Orleans Pelicans organization, Quiñones, during a recent conversation with Grant Afseth, the 23-year-old guard, shared his thoughts on the influences that contributed to his journey, focusing on his time in The Bay Area.
Learning From The Greats In Golden State
“Definitely my first two years at Golden State — Steph was like a mentor to me, even to this day. I texted him a couple of days ago,” Quiñones shared. “Having him those first two years in the league, plus guys like Klay, CP3, Jordan Poole — those types of guys around me, I learned a lot.”
While playing for the Santa Cruz Warriors, the Golden State G-League team, Quiñones won the NBA G League Most Improved Player award in 2023. According to Basketball Reference, in 37 games, he averaged 4.4 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.0 assists. He shot 39.7 percent from the field and 36.4 percent from three.
It wasn’t just about winning awards—it was about learning everything he could from the team’s veterans.
“I was one of those young guys that showed up to every single workout Steph did. Whether it was an off day, game day, or practice day, I was always there watching everything like a sponge. I can honestly say I took full advantage of every opportunity there.”
New Lessons In Philadelphia
Quiñones brought that same mindset to the Philadelphia 76ers on a two-way contract. The learning opportunities in Philadelphia continued to grow, particularly with superstars like Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and newly added Paul George in the building.
“In Philly, being around guys like PG, Maxey, and Embiid — same thing,” he said. “Watching PG and Maxey work out, jumping into reps with them, just soaking it all up.”
Quiñones averaged 2.3 points, 1.0 rebounds, and 0.3 assists per game this season, shooting 50 percent overall in four games with the Sixers.
A Fresh Start In New Orleans
Despite being a New Orleans Pelicans organization member and playing for the Birmingham Squadron in the G League, Quiñones is still striving for growth. Quiñones has played in three games for the Squadron this season, averaging 3.3 pts, 0.3 rebs, and 0.3 assists per game. He is shooting 57.1 percent overall and 50.0 percent from behind the arc.
“It makes me excited to eventually go up top here with the Pelicans and be around guys like CJ [McCollum] or Dejounte [Murray], where I can learn some moves, reads, and how they move professionally,” he said. “I’m just trying to be a student of the game.”
Quiñones praised his current Squadron teammates, including two-way player Keion Brooks and second-round pick Antonio Reeves, for their dedication and professionalism.
“Just their professionalism — KB, being ready every single day,” Quiñones said. “Coming down here, he’s the same person daily. Whether it’s making a play, playing hard, being in the right spot — it shows.”
Embracing The Culture In Birmingham
Even though the Squadron was eliminated from playoff contention, Quiñones commended the culture established by their head coach, T.J. Saint, and the team’s unwavering attitude.
“We know we’re not making the playoffs, and it’s easy for teams to quit at this point,” he said. “But T.J.’s emphasized playing hard, putting the right film out there, and doing the right things. From day one, we’ve set the standard and culture here — and nothing changes now.”
