Usman Garuba: 'I want to be someone in the NBA, not just play there' / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: USA TODAY Sports-Scanpix Credit USA TODAY Sports-Scanpix

The Houston Rockets power forward Usman Garuba summed up his first season in the NBA, talking to EFE. Last summer he left Real Madrid for an NBA dream, while Garuba was drafted by the Rockets with the 23rd overall pick.

Free throws this season

71%17,5Points made:17,5Accuracy:71,3%Place in standings:10Record max:28Record min:5Most made FTs:Christian WoodTeamNBAStatisticsSchedule

The 20-year-old had an up-and-down NBA season that only makes him more eager to succeed in the strongest basketball league.

His NBA numbers marked 2.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 0.7 assists over 24 regular-season games. According to the Spanish athlete, his first year's grade remains unclear, as Garuba didn't fulfill his objectives.

"I can't give myself a grade, because the truth is that I couldn't play as much as I would have liked. We can say that my grade could be 'no show' in this situation," the 2.03-meter forward said.

As stated by the player, he was the most surprised with the physical level in the NBA.

"I knew it, but living it from the inside is something very different."

Garuba was dropped to the Rockets' G League affiliate, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, twice in the 2021-22 season. How did he take it?

"I took it very well because I wanted to play and learn. This first year, I was prepared for all the scenarios. I went down there and I learned a lot," the former Real player spoke.

Asked about the possible vacation in the summer, Usman Garuba declined the opportunity to rest.

"I'm not going to get a break because I'm too young for that. Rockets have told me that they are going to work a lot with me this summer. I need to improve on a little of everything, including shooting, reading the game, understanding my teammates better."

The power forward also admitted that he doesn't regret his decision to go to the NBA so young.

"I went at the right time. I'm going to train hard to get better at playing across the Atlantic, whether it's in the G League or the NBA. Rockets are clear about what they're doing and I'm very excited."

Last but not least, Usman Garuba talked about his role in the league.

"My goal is to show what I can do. I want to be someone in the NBA, not just play there. I want to be in the NBA because I deserve it. I've worked hard and I really want to show who I am."

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