Magic Star Paolo Banchero 'Experimental' With Team USA
Paolo Banchero, heading into his second year in the NBA, is the team's franchise cornerstone player. Moving forward, things will be built around Banchero and his best interest will be in mind when building a roster.
Evidently, the Orlando Magic star is gaining respect for the incredible rookie season he has, which landed him the Rookie of the Year trophy. Steve Kerr and Team USA called Banchero to join them during the FIBA World Cup because of his incredible season.
For the former No. 1 overall pick, the tournament provides an opportunity to try new things. In specific, the team's head coach Steve Kerr plans on using Banchero as the small-ball center.
While this provides Banchero a new look, he gets to experiment with a look the Magic may see. At 6-10, 250 pounds, he's got the size and frame to play against centers, and his athleticism allows the team to get out on the break sooner.
Kerr is using Team USA as a way to get creative with the plethora of talent, but, ultimately, the Magic may be able to use it as a baseline for a potential experiment next season. They don't have a sure backup center yet, so Banchero may be able to take on some of those minutes.
Playing with star players that are more experienced and have seen much more in their NBA lives than Banchero is a big bonus of playing with Team USA. Banchero will not only get to see how these players carry themselves on a daily basis, but get an idea of playing in a more focused role.
This experience may eventually help Banchero become a better leader for the Magic, and Team USA is full of young talent. Who knows? Maybe Banchero will even lay the groundwork for eventually recruiting some of these guys to Orlando.
You can follow Kade Kimble on Twitter @KadeKimble.
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