The Miami Heat continue to wade around .500 following their loss to the lowly Atlanta Hawks on Monday night. However, they have at least enjoyed watching the progression of rookie center Bam Adebayo.
Adebayo has done a solid job since taking on a starting role with center Hassan Whiteside out with a knee injury. While he likely has his sights set on maintaining his role when Whiteside returns, the 14th pick in the 2017 NBA Draft is hoping to build on his development by patterning his game after NBA legend Kevin Garnett, according to John Warech of Ocean Drive Magazine
“It’s always been Kevin Garnett, because of his passion and his drive. He’s one of those guys that never took plays off. He always wanted to be the best player and the most vocal. He always wanted to see his team win.”
Garnett is remembered as not only one of the most skilled big men but as arguably the fiercest competitor of his generation. The competitiveness of “The Big Ticket” knew no bounds when it came to trying to get a win.
That said, Adebayo's selection is indicative of his selflessness as a player looking to make an impact wherever his team needs it. Much like Garnett, Adebayo has needed some time to get his game adjusted to the NBA level. However, his increase in minutes lately has helped him make some tremendous strides for the Heat.