Inside The Nets

Nets' rookies finally make their NBA debuts against the Heat

The much-anticipated debut of Brooklyn Nets' rookies unfolded in a blowout victory against the Miami Heat.

Peter Sunjic

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Prior to the commencement of the 2023/24 season, Brooklyn Nets fans were already well aware of the promising talents embedded within their three draft picks. While Noah Clowney and Dariq Whitehead, both at the age of 19, didn't have the opportunity to showcase their potential, second-round pick and two-way contract player Jalen Wilson faced no initial delay, receiving early playing time due to his more mature status. 

All three rookies garnered substantial minutes with the Brooklyn G-League affiliate, the Long Island Nets. However, it was in the closing moments of a decisive victory against the Miami Heat that the two first-round draftees finally made their NBA debuts.

“I love it. It takes so much hard work and dedication and everything else that came into that moment. For them to put the jersey on and play in a real game, get their first stats and check that off the bucket list is pretty cool,” Cameron Johnson said in his post-game presser.

Both first-round draftees are promising

Picked back-to-back at 21st at 22nd pick, Clowney and Whitehead have the potential to be long-term contributors to the organization. They are some of the youngest players in the league, which means they have tons of room to grow.

Clowney, a 6’10” power forward, exhibits impressive mobility, making him well-suited for the demands of the modern NBA, with promising potential as a shooter. 

He does not have the statistics with his shooting just yet but his form looks good and decent enough to have long-term potential. His athleticism is already quite solid, meaning he can be a rim-runner in the pick-and-roll or in transition.

On the other hand, Whitehead has the potential to be a star wing player. He is one of the best shooters from the 2023 NBA Draft class while also possessing solid physical traits at 6’7” and elite athleticism. If he can meet his potential, a Whitehead can become a long-term option at the wing that fits well alongside Cameron Thomas.

The rookies can carve out a role for themselves

The Nets have faced plenty of injuries already this season which can open up opportunities for the up-and-coming players. They are still young, so most likely they will keep playing getting their opportunity with in the G-League.

The brief appearance against the Heat marks the initial chapter for Clowney and Whitehead, signaling their long-term potential, akin to the Nets' successful approach in the 2021 Draft with promising projects Cam Thomas and Day’Ron Sharpe. 

Observing the growth of these two rookies, along with Jalen Wilson, anticipates an exhilarating journey as they aim to evolve into bigger roles as the time passes.

Game Preview and Injury Report: Brooklyn Nets vs Chicago Bulls

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Peter Sunjic
PETER SUNJIC

Peter's journey with basketball commenced in the first grade, and it has since evolved into an integral part of his life. Standing on the brink of a potential professional playing career, Peter ultimately chose to pursue a degree in Political Science and Journalism in Zagreb, Croatia. Despite this academic pursuit, his deep-rooted love for the game of basketball endured, undiminished. Now, as a writer and editor, Peter finds an avenue to channel his unwavering passion for basketball-related news and analysis. Whether it's deciphering the latest happenings or delving into the lore of old-school basketball, he covers every corner of the NBA world.

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