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When young athletes enter the professional ranks, they often find themselves in awe of the greats, soaking up their skills and techniques. For those fortunate enough to play alongside legends like Steph Curry and Klay Thompson, the learning experience is absolutely invaluable. The young Warriors forward, Santos, is taking full advantage of his time alongside the NBA's all-time greatest shooter, Steph Curry, and reflecting on how both Curry and Thompson have influenced his game.
Santos has always been a keen observer, making it a point to study the movement, footwork, and shooting mechanics of his veteran teammates. "I’m a guy that likes to watch," he stated in a recent practice session. This observation method has allowed him to learn not just about shooting but also about the intricacies of getting open and setting his body correctly before receiving the ball. This preparation is crucial because, as Santos pointed out, "the shot begins before you shoot the ball." It is this focus on the buildup to the actual shooting that has elevated his understanding of the game.
At just 22 years old, Santos has already experienced numerous ups and downs in his early career, including a non-guaranteed contract until January 7, 2025. His determination and willingness to learn have begun to manifest on the court, as he recently notched a career-high 19 points against the Chicago Bulls with an impressive shooting performance of 7-of-10 from the field, including 5-of-6 from the three-point line. This surge captured the attention of fans and analysts alike, showcasing how the lessons learned from shooting legends are taking shape.
One of the standout techniques Santos has observed from Curry and Thompson is the importance of keeping the shooting hand up after making a shot. This technique serves not only as a way to maintain form but also as a method of confidence and assertiveness in one’s shooting ability. Santos stated, "Every time they shoot, they keep the hands up." It’s a small detail, but it can profoundly impact the shooting rhythm and mindset of a player.
However, as the season unfolds, the Golden State Warriors are facing challenges. Despite Curry's undeniable talent and contributions, there are discussions about whether he should consider a change to rejuvenate his career. Former NBA star Eddie Johnson voiced concerns that Curry might be making a mistake by not considering a trade, especially given the Warriors' recent struggles and their standing as an 11th seed in the Western Conference. Curry’s averages of 22.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 6.2 assists across the first half of the season illustrate that while he's maintaining solid numbers, the team's overall performance has not matched past excellence.
For many players, including Santos, learning from an icon like Curry is essential, especially when navigating the challenges of professional basketball. Observing how Curry handles pressure, recovers from tough games, and continues to push the boundaries of what shooting can be provides endless lessons that go beyond stats. It's about the mindset, the practice habits, and the commitment to excellence.
As the Warriors prepare to face the Orlando Magic next, the focus on teamwork and personal growth will be more crucial than ever. While Santos benefits directly from Curry's legacy in real-time, the story serves as a reminder that the essence of the game is fundamentally about learning and evolving, whether you are a young player or a seasoned veteran.
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