Harrison Ingram‘s journey as a young NBA player has been one of adaptation and growth. The San Antonio Spurs forward has faced challenges and opportunities to improve his game during his rookie season, especially in playing without the ball.
The evolution and invaluable mentorship from the Spurs’ veteran group has significantly shaped Ingram’s journey toward fulfilling his NBA aspirations.
Adapting His Game: From Ball Handler To Off-The-Ball Player
Learning to play without the ball has significantly changed Ingram’s game. In an interview with Grant Afseth, Ingram discussed this transition: “Really just learning the game, playing without the ball. I’ve always been the guy; I had the ball in my hands. Even at Carolina, I started playing off the ball a little bit more.”
The NBA’s fast-paced, team-oriented environment is a steep learning curve for a player who is traditionally the primary ball handler. The Austin Spurs, San Antonio’s G-League affiliate, has played a vital role in his efforts to refine his game.
“You get to the main level, you’re not the main guy. You gotta be able to cut, know when to cut, know how to screen — little things like that,” Ingram noted.
These subtle skills have become essential to his development. As he continues to grow into his role with the Spurs, Ingram has learned to excel in off-ball movements such as screening, cutting, and scoring without the ball.
“I never really was a screener, and I feel like I’ve gotten really good at screening and cutting and at pin elbow, score without dribbling,” Ingram added, acknowledging the importance of these adjustments. In a Spurs system that prioritizes ball movement, player spacing, and collective offensive schemes, it is crucial to contribute without dominating the ball.
The Importance Of Veteran Mentorship
The mentorship that Ingram has received from the veteran players of the Spurs has been a standout aspect of his rookie season. Ingram credits his growth to the support from established players such as Keldon Johnson, Harrison Barnes, Julian Champagnie, and the legendary Chris Paul. He has gained valuable knowledge from some of the NBA’s most experienced players through his access to a wealth of knowledge.
“I have my vets,” Ingram said, referencing the veterans who have taken him under their wing. “Keldon’s always there texting me. Harrison Barnes, Julian Champagnie, kind of the whole wing group. They all look out.”
Veterans go above and beyond to encourage Ingram and actively assist him in improving, sending him training resources, workout suggestions, and game film for review. The constant feedback loop has been instrumental in Ingram’s continuous improvement of his skills and basketball intelligence.
The guidance of Chris Paul, a future Hall of Famer, benefits Ingram even during games. “Even Chris Paul, too, like he’ll send me film, and when I’m up with the main team, he’ll show me little things,” Ingram revealed. “I might be on the bench; I might not even be suited up. He’ll be mid-game and showing me little things about the game — noticing this, noticing that. And there’s things I really haven’t thought of.”
By learning from players who deeply understand the game of basketball, Ingram has grown faster. The opportunity to receive real-time, on-the-spot coaching from a player like Chris Paul, who has seen it all in his 18-year career, has been an incredibly valuable resource.
Looking Ahead: Ingram’s Aspirations For The Future
As Harrison Ingram adapts his game and incorporates his veteran mentors’ lessons, he aims to secure a standard NBA contract and establish himself as a key contributor for the San Antonio Spurs. The Austin Spurs have prepared him for the next level and instilled in him the work ethic and mentality necessary for success in the NBA.
Ingram’s future in the NBA appears promising. He emphasizes continuous improvement and learning and is committed to refining his skills, whether becoming a more efficient off-the-ball player or absorbing every bit of knowledge from the Spurs’ veteran leaders.
He demonstrates his dedication to developing the all-around game needed for a successful NBA career. Ingram’s journey is a testament to the importance of adaptability, hard work, and mentorship in shaping a player’s growth. The NBA is unknown territory for him as he continues to learn from those around him.
Conclusion
Harrison Ingram has made significant progress in his game during his first season with the San Antonio Spurs, especially in learning to play without the ball. Keldon Johnson, Ingram has become more confident in his role within the Spurs’ system thanks to the guidance of Harrison Barnes, Julian Champagnie, and Chris Paul.
To thrive in the NBA, he must prioritize developing key skills like screening, cutting, and scoring off the ball.
Given his strong foundation and unwavering commitment to improvement, Ingram’s future in the league seems promising.
