Payton Pritchard Considers Getting Used to the NBA
A vital member of the Boston Celtics’ second unit is Payton Pritchard. Over 22.3 minutes per game this season, the Celtics guard averaged a career-high 9.6 points, 3.4 assists, and 3.2 rebounds.
Pritchard supposedly asked to be traded by Boston after playing a career-low 13.4 minutes per game the previous season. The 26-year-old was given a larger role in the rotation and consented to a four-year, $30 million contract extension in October.
Throughout his time in Boston, Pritchard has prioritized growth attitude, according to Inside The Celtics.
I’ve changed that since joining the league. I believe that’s the only reason I’ve been able to continue improving every year. There have been some difficult times when you could give up and just fold, but you have to push through them in order to keep improving and learning from everyone you meet.
Pritchard talked about staying positive even when one’s performance isn’t at its best.
“Well, I do my best to be. However, there are undoubtedly bad days. There are frustrating moments, particularly from the previous year. You go through slumps, you’re not playing well, and it’s difficult. However, you kind of have to wake up every morning knowing what you’re capable of and how much work you put in. In the end, I believe it all boils down to the hours and labor I put in. It simply boosts self-assurance. I simply feel like I can go up against anyone now.
Pritchard talked about adjusting to the NBA following his time in college.
It’s really challenging. Every NBA star was, come to think of it, the best guy on their college squad. The best guy on their high school team, without a doubt. They have spent their entire lives taking 20 shots in every game. Thus, it’s almost like a shock when you come to the league, and you have to figure out how to effect it differently. Thus, I believe it will be a change. Many young men struggle to adapt to the league, which prevents them from succeeding, but those who do grow into successful. You only need to take a step-by-step approach to it. You understand that in order to be the best player, you must succeed in your role, develop in it, and never give up.
