Brampton, Ontario’s own Anthony Bennett made history as the first Canadian to be chosen first overall in the NBA Draft. Now he’s blogging about his rookie season for Sportsnet. This week, Bennett dishes on his new teammates in Cleveland and a busy, life-altering summer.
My life changed after June 27, and as a result I had a very busy summer—a lot of workouts, rehab sessions and appearances. But the coolest thing that I did this summer was when I went to the Jane and Finch Boys and Girls Club, where I spent a major portion of my youth. My time there was spent meeting the supervisors and kids; I signed autographs and took pictures with everyone there. That was a very humbling experience and I’m glad I was able to give back to my old neighbourhood.
Needless to say, the NBA Draft night was amazing, and I will never forget it. What made it so special was I had my family and friends there to share that special moment. My phone was blowing up, but I was too busy to attend to it—my mother would have been the first person I’d call, but thankfully she was right next to me.
I’ve been fortunate to have been drafted by Cleveland (I haven’t played in any of the Cavs’ alternate uniforms, but currently my favourite would have to be the away wine-and-gold jersey), and am enjoying my new teammates. Kyrie [Irving] is by far the best point guard I have ever played with. He is a great vocal leader, hard worker, and a perfectionist. I think the world has been put on notice of what kind of abilities he has once he touches the hardwood.
And I knew of Tristan [Thompson] back in Brampton, and would see him around town. Having him a part of the Cavs has been great ’cause he has been able to show me around Cleveland and give me great advice on the court.
All the veterans are vocal leaders on our team and they know the importance of building confidence in rookies. The thing with this team is that everyone plays their part; we are a young team with a great veteran presence. All the trainers, players and coaching staff have all been important to my progression as a NBA player.
Being out on the court during the pre-season, after five months of not playing, felt great. I was just happy to be out there. My impression of the NBA thus far is that it is very fast and physical, and that is something I did not expect.
I’ve been asked about what it will be like to share the court with players I admire and grew up watching, but I don’t think it will be difficult to adjust to. At the end of the day we’re all basketball players playing the same game.
Have a question for Anthony to answer in his next Rookie Diary? Shoot him a line at asktheinsiders@sportsnet.ca.
