Bennedict Mathurin gets shooting tips from Klay Thompson: 'Klay Thompson is an amazing player'
Indiana Pacers guard Bennedict Mathurin worked out with Golden State Warriors star Klay Thompson over the summer in Los Angeles. A video shared by the NBA showed the two players going at it in a gym at Loyola Marymount University.
Mathurin said earlier this week that he and Thompson were connected via a trainer they share, Charlie Torres. Torres has done work with several NBA players in the past, including Kelly Oubre and Derrick Williams on top of Mathurin and Thompson.
Indiana's second-year guard detailed what he gained from those workouts during training camp. Last Wednesday, Mathurin was asked about his time in the gym with one of the best shooters ever.
"Man, Klay Thompson is an amazing player. His shooting pockets are different, so obviously getting that from him," Mathurin said. "His shot is always the same. He knows if he misses left, the reason why."
Shooting tips are exactly what the 21-year old needs. After starting last season with a 41.7% three-point percentage through 20 games, Mathurin only canned 26.7% of his outside shots the rest of the campaign. He settled in at 32.3% in his first season.
Thompson has an incredible shooting routine, and his technique is picture-perfect. Mathurin took notes about his consistency and ability to always set his feet.
He also got advice from Thompson about mentality. "He just told me to always take the same shot... if you take a shot, be confident all the way through," Mathurin said.
The Pacers guard/wing went 2/5 from deep in the team's first preseason of the year. He did a great job of standing out while still fitting in. His fit alongside All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton is important this season, and improving his outside shot will help that pairing.
Thompson is one of the best complementary players in the league alongside Steph Curry. Mathurin could, if things go perfectly, have a similarly important role, if not something bigger.
Indiana and Mathurin next hit the court tomorrow night in Houston for preseason action.
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