Jonathan Kuminga is expecting a big season with the Golden State Warriors. The explosive forward is entering his third year in the NBA and could find himself playing a significant role. Kuminga spent the summer working out with some of the team’s veteran players, most notably Chris Paul.
On Oct. 7, Kuminga impressed during his team’s preseason opener against the Los Angeles Lakers, securing 8 rebounds and dropping 24 points. When speaking to the media following the game, Kuminga revealed how improving his rebounding ability has been a focus throughout training camp, and it is something he will continue to work on heading into the new season.
“It’s something I’ve been really working on,” Kuminga said. “If I don’t do it in practice, they gonna stop practice. So, it’s been a consistent thing every single day. I’m not great at it yet, but I’m working on it. Just crashing every single time, not standing out watching when the ball goes up. I’m trying as much as I can to be in the paint every single time. To be in the mix every time.”
Golden State is short on size this season. Dario Saric and Trayce Jackson-Davis are the two tallest players on the roster; both stand 6 feet, 10 inches. As such, the Warriors look to rebound by committee this season, which could provide Kuminga with a platform to develop into a high-level rebounder throughout the season.
Eight rebounds for Jonathan Kuminga tonight: "That's something I've been working on. If I don't do it in practice, they stop practice. I'm not great at it yet, but I'm working on it…Crashing every single time. Not standing, not watching."
Full soundbite pic.twitter.com/cDmPmFVGJ5
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) October 8, 2023
For now, Kuminga will need to continue impressing during preseason and finding ways to make an impact for his team, whether that’s on the glass or on the scoreboard.
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