With the Golden State Warriors tipping off their preseason schedule on Friday in Japan, the contest gave the team its first look at rookies Patrick Baldwin Jr. and Ryan Rollins.
Though James Wiseman stole the show with 20 points, the two rookies saw time in the 96-87 win over the Washington Wizards. Baldwin finished with seven points and one rebound in eight minutes, while Rollins had eight points and four rebounds in 11 minutes.
They entered the game in the third quarter once the starters were done. Once in the game, Baldwin connected on his first 3-point attempt, which was set up by Rollins. Baldwin finished 2-of-4 from the field; Rollins was 1-of-6.
For Baldwin, it was rewarding to see his first shot go down.
Getting that first shot to fall is pretty much everything for me. It gave me a big boost of confidence and allowed me to play my game for those short minutes I was in. A big credit to all of the people that helped me and the team I have behind me to get back to this point. It has just been great to get back out here.
"Get" action into a Ryan Rollins-Patrick Baldwin Jr PnP. PBJ with the smoooth stroke. That shot looks wet. pic.twitter.com/UJJA3eskZX
— Joe Viray (@JoeVirayNBA) September 30, 2022
Of course, Baldwin played 11 games last season at Milwaukee due to an ankle injury suffered in high school. He was held out of summer league because of the injury but is fully healthy after a busy offseason inside the gym.
He had the opportunity to spend some time with Rollins as the two get acclimated to their new team. It has helped them with the transition on and off the court.
We’re both coming in as rookies this year and are both kinda in the same boat. Just building that chemistry through workouts and spending time off the court with each other has been big for us. To see it come to fruition with our first bucket and first assist is pretty special.
Warriors president Bob Myers hinted Baldwin could spend time this season in the NBA G League with the Santa Cruz Warriors. He will likely be in mostly a developmental role this year, but the team is very high on his future and he showed some of his potential on Friday.
Golden State wraps up its trip to Japan on Sunday at 1 a.m. EDT.
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