The Phoenix Suns are clearly struggling nowadays, but for Suns sophomore power forward Marquese Chriss, his own struggles began way back before this season even kicked off.
Chriss has been disappointing for the Suns so far this season, and he has an idea why he’s been off in his second year in the league. According to the Suns forward, his inability to keep himself in shape during the offseason has affected his play so much it’s getting noticed by plenty of basketball observers, per Scott Bordow of AZ Central.
“I let myself get to a place where I shouldn’t have been,” said Chriss, who declined to say how much weight he gained. “I think it happens to a lot of people. For me it was a learning experience.”
Marquese Chriss averaged 9.2 points per game last season, but instead of an expected improvement this season, the former Washington Husky is currently experiencing regression, as he’s putting up just 6.3 points per game.
Article Continues BelowApparently, Chriss spent a little bit more time indulging on food than practicing his jumpshot back in the offseason, though anyone who went from college where student-athletes sometimes go to bed on an empty stomach to being a millionaire basketball player over a short period of time will likely be tempted to do so.
At the very least, Marquese Chriss acknowledges his mistake and is intent on changing his habits to help the Suns.
“I needed to learn how to manage. I needed to grow up in that aspect of my life so I’m grateful that it happened sooner rather than later,” he said.”