The Golden State Warriors owner Joe Lacob revealed why the franchise drafted him over LaMelo Ball.
The CEO also added that the decision to add Wiseman to the mix was a collective decision and that everyone on the team still believes they made the right call.
Speaking to The Athletic’s Tim Kawakami, Lacob said No. 2 overall in the 2020 NBA Draft had their attention. It hasn’t been the ideal start to Wiseman’s career, but he still has the backing of all the players and the management.
“But I want to correct something for you and our fans; our entire front office and head coach wanted to draft James Wiseman. We were universal in that regard. I know people like to make up stuff, we all loved him. And I think we all are still very high on him.”
He further added:
“I do think he’s very, very talented,” Lacob said. “He’s also in an organization and on a team which is trying to win championships, it’s different than if you’re playing somewhere where they’re just throwing everybody out there.
At the time of writing, Wiseman averages 6.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 0.7 assists. The center missed the entirety of the last season.
Joe Lacob Believed James Wiseman Had Bad Luck Early On In His Career
Wiseman played 39 games in his rookie year but missed his second season due to a torn meniscus. The big man made his appearance on the court for the first time this season after last suiting up on April 10, 2021.
Lacob believed that the early injuries played a part in Wiseman’s forgettable second stretch, but believed in the 21-year-old’s abilities.
“I do think he’s very, very talented,” Lacob said. “He’s also in an organization and on a team which is trying to win championships, it’s different than if you’re playing somewhere where they’re just throwing everybody out there.
Wiseman’s poor run has earned criticism from fans who felt LaMelo Ball would have been a better fit at Golden State. The third overall pick of the 2020 NBA draft ended as the Rookie of The Year in 2021 and made the All-Star team in 2022. He has become the mainstay of the Charlotte Hornets since.
Wiseman is currently recovering from a sprained ankle which he suffered during a 3 vs. 3 ahead of the Warriors clash against the Portland Trail Blazers. He may not have the numbers to show for this season yet, but Lacob’s show of support might be just what he needs to bounce back stronger.
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