Jazz's Kyle Filipowski Shares True Thoughts on His Rookie Year So Far

The Utah Jazz second round pick from this summer has gotten his feet wet in the pros.

Nov 4, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Utah Jazz forward Kyle Filipowski (22) warms up before the game against the Chicago Bulls at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images / David Banks-Imagn Images

Among the Utah Jazz's crowd of three rookies brought into the fold this past summer, one who's started the year making a significant impact happens to be the second-round big man from Duke Kyle Filipowski, who's already showcasing a nice first impression after appearing just 10 games on the floor.

His counting numbers don't leap off page, as Filipowski has begun by averaging 5.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists. Yet with just under 15 minutes played a night, the first-year big man is making the most of his opportunity, also managing to shoot the ball well when he's out there-- collecting a 51.5% clip from the field and 35.3% from deep.

Filipowski spoke to the media about his feelings around his rookie season following the Jazz's win against the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday.

"It's a lot of fun," Filipowski said. "I think I kind of got lost in the game today, and it was so good to feel that. Just being a part of something bigger, trying to fight with my guys to get the win today. It goes a long way at the end of the day, and it's very meaningful."

The former Blue Devil had a solid showing on Monday against the Spurs, putting up eight points, five rebounds, six assists, and a steal in 25 minutes, all en route to secure the Jazz's second win of the season.

There shouldn't be a single game for the rest of the season where Kyle Filipowski is not in the rotation

He put on a passing clinic against the Spurs last night with 6 assists pic.twitter.com/vMGkqK0fQ5

— Jazz Lead (@JazzLead) November 10, 2024

Filipowski continued to discuss how he gets to be "lost in the game," ultimately expressing a one-track mind while out he's on the floor: win the game.

"You kind of forget about the bad plays, bad moments," said Filipowski. "You're just thinking 'next-step ahead' type of mentality, and you realize you're doing anything in order to get the win-- like diving around the floor and things like that. You aren't second guessing yourself about or worrying about anything else except trying to win the game."

"I'm feeling really good about [my development]. It gives me a lot of confidence with the work I've already put in, seeing a little bit of the results from that. Just keep climbing steps from there."

Filipowski will attempt to keep building upon a successful rookie campaign come Tuesday, when the Jazz face off against the Phoenix Suns in what will be their first of this year's slate of In-Season Tournament games.

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