The NBA Draft is a chance for every team to bolster their rosters with hopeful developing talent and was held on June 25th. On that night, the Miami Heat made a terrific selection with the 10th pick in the draft, choosing Justise Winslow, a freshman from Duke University. I think he has tremendous potential and will mesh will the lineup of the Miami Heat, which will hopefully include Dwayne Wade if he chooses to re-sign. (Please stay Wade!) Here are a few things you should know about the newcomer to our Miami Heat.
1. He means business
Although he only had one year at Duke, he posted great numbers alongside his big man, Jahlil Okafor. Winslow averaged almost 13 points per game and 6 boards, which are important for the small forward position. Before Duke, Winslow became better each year that he attended St. John’s High School. In his freshman year he averaged 15 points per game, but by senior year he had improved to nearly 28 points and 14 rebounds per game. This tremendous increase over his high school years shows his ability to only get better with time, and I think this will transition well and pay off for the Heat in the future.
2. He has experience winning
Justise Winslow is accustomed to the spotlight. In high school, he was the reigning Gatorade Player of the Year, and won two national championships as well. In Winslow’s first and only year at Duke, he had a powerhouse team playing with him. They went on to win the National Championship, which is another notch on the well-punched belt possessed by Justise Winslow.
3. He is a long-time basketball fan
Growing up in Texas, Winslow had an affinity for the Houston Rockets. With the 18th pick in the NBA draft, they were unattainable to attain their long-term fan. Personally as a Heat fan, I believe that worked out for the better, and am hopeful for Winslow to own the spotlight (in time) in Miami.
4. He has the potential to be a great all-around player
Many people are comparing Winslow to the likes of Draymond Green, the glue player for the recent champions, the Golden State Warriors. Winslow can do just about anything on the court, and can contribute immensely on both sides of the ball. He is a great defender, and at the small forward position reminds me of the talents of LeBron James, though he has a long way to go before he can compare to that great.
5. He’s excited for the NBA
Winslow knows how it feels to win, and believes he can immediately contribute to a championship for the Heat. With the help of Heat-great Dwayne Wade (his words as well), he believes he can develop into a great player and help the team win. He can shoot the ball, and initially coming off the bench will help Winslow learn the game on the professional level behind Luol Deng, another great SF.
I am a hopeful Heat fan, and the team is gradually improving to be in a position to be a championship contender once again. I wish only the best to Winslow, and am eager to see him play in the upcoming season!
