In a season and a half with the Golden State Warriors, Kent Bazemore averaged only two points in around five minutes per game.
Not being able to get on the court can make a lot of players question if they can hang against the elite of the NBA, but Bazemore just needed the opportunity to showcase what he can do.
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In six games with the Lakers, Bazemore is averaging nearly 16 points in over 30 minutes per game. According to Lakers reporter Mike Trudell, Bazemore’s success has really helped him learn something important about himself:
Asked @KentBazemore20 what he’s learned about his game since the trade. “The biggest thing I’ve learned is that I belong.”
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) March 5, 2014
It is amazing what people can do when given the opportunity. Bazemore was known more for his celebrations on the bench than his actual playing ability when he came to Los Angeles. Now he’s one of the Lakers’ most essential offensive weapons.
When someone spends a long time on the bench, especially early in their career, it can destroy their confidence because they may begin to wonder if they can make it.
Thankfully, Bazemore isn’t wired like that. He worked hard so that when he got his opportunity, he was able to take advantage. Now everyone knows that he belongs in the NBA.
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