OKC Thunder fans got additional insight on NBA Draft prospects with Isaiah Joe among the first group of zoom media interviews.
With a champion crowned for the 2019-20 season, the next big event on the NBA calendar will be the draft. In preparation, the OKC Thunder and their peers are currently looking at potential additions to their rosters.
And while Sam Presti and his front office staff will hold their own meetings with prospects fans got to witness some of the youngsters eager to begin their professional careers via a series of zoom calls with the media.
Isaiah Joe who played his NCAA ball with Arkansas was among those in the first round of media zoom interviews. The full session can be viewed via this video posted on NBA.com.
Isaiah Joe zoom media interview highlights
Joe was asked a series of questions and the following offers his answers to some of those questions.
What part of his game will translate best to the next level?
It’s no secret the 6’5″ guard brings lethal shooting to the hardwood with the youngster referring to himself as a “lethal shooter” at one point in the Q and A. He added that his ability to score at a high clip from the perimeter and keep moving occupies defenders. In addition, Joe noted his defense is underrated citing his high I.Q. specifically in terms of being in the right spot, getting steals, and taking charges.
What has he worked on in preparation for the draft?
The Arkansas alum noted the main areas of his focus as he prepares for the draft are adding weight and muscle. In addition, he continues to concentrate on improving and his ballhandling. Although he notes his shot is the best part of his game he continues to look at ways to be better. Specifically, Joe cited improving his shot in situations like off screens, in catch and shoot situations, and creating off the dribble.
He specifically noted players Klay Thompson and JJ Redick as great examples of players who get shots up quickly without many dribbles and is something he is concentrated on adding to his repertoire.
Teams he’s interviewed with and points he’s emphasizing:
In terms of which teams he’s interviewed with Joe only confirmed or denied when asked specifically. The three teams he cited were the New York Knicks, Brooklyn Nets, and Toronto Raptors while the two teams he was asked about that he hasn’t spoken to were the Boston Celtics and Phoenix Suns.
Some of the things he noting in discussion with teams are his deep range calling himself a lethal shooter, his great I.Q. and leadership.
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It was noted that his statistical efficiency dipped when he suffered an injury so he’s been sure to point out the variance of when he was healthy. One statement embodying his confidence was Joe stated “I want to be the best shooter on the court at all times.” Great fodder for his new team and perfect chalkboard material for opposing defenses.
Joe also responded to a question about how he can take lessons learned from playing against the likes of Tyler Herro in his first NCAA season and equate the same type of success in the NBA. The Arkansas guard cited dedication and tenacity as key aspects to a player’s success and noted he intends to bring the same energy to his workouts and each appearance on the hardwood and expects to have similar success with that type of focus.
Thunderous Intentions will provide more in-depth draft prospect previews in the coming days. Isaiah Joe is definitely a player who is gaining traction on many boards and should get some serious consideration from the OKC Thunder.