Naji Marshall’s Exciting Experience with the Dallas Mavericks
Naji Marshall was one of seven members of the Dallas Mavericks sitting courtside in Las Vegas last week, analyzing a competitive matchup between Cooper Flagg and Bronny James.
The two summer league standouts were matched up against each other on three consecutive possessions, as Flagg tried to use his size advantage to overpower James. On the third occurrence, Flagg rose over James and drained a midrange shot.
Knockout! Photos from Naji Marshall’s appearance at the Mavs Academy Hoop Camp
Marshall’s Thoughts on the Game
Marshall and the rest of the Mavericks cheered their new teammate on as he ran down the court. The Mavericks forward reflected on the moment Friday afternoon in front of a small group of reporters following the latest edition of Mavs Academy Hoop Camp.
“It was fun,” Marshall said. “I haven’t seen some of those guys in a minute. Cooper’s great, man. It’s a lot of pressure being the No. 1 pick. Just going out there and playing his natural game. I think he got the jitters out. In the second game, he came back with 30 [points]. It’s something to look forward to this season. I’m excited to play with Coop and I just look forward to his progression.”
Marshall’s Experience at the Mavs Academy Hoop Camp
Marshall is entering his second season in Dallas and he’s instantly become a fan favorite. Known for his toughness and two-way versatility, Marshall was welcomed by the large group of campers shortly after he walked into the gymnasium of the Mavericks’ practice facility just after 12:30 p.m. on Friday.
Marshall held a Q&A session with the campers, posed for photos and participated in shooting and defense drills, followed by a game of knockout. Marshall won the first game against a male camper, but met his match against 12-year-old Marie Gillespy. After a series of makes by both players, Marshall missed a jumper from the free-throw line. Gillespy knocked hers down, which caused the other campers to recite their signature phrase following a loss:
“1, 2, 3, sit down!”
Naji Marshall and 12-year-old Marie Gillespy went down to the wire in the final game of Knockout. It was close, but Gillespy came out with win.
The campers couldn’t wait to yell their signature phrase: “1, 2, 3, sit down!” pic.twitter.com/fBDcvDbK9M
Marshall’s Reflection on the Moment
Marshall said the moment was fun, especially since knockout was a favorite during his childhood.
“It feels good, for sure. I just remember when I was one of those kids and people used to pull up to the gym and how exciting that was for me. Just to be on the other end of that is kind of surreal and a great feeling.”
Marshall’s Upcoming Season
Marshall is coming off career-highs of 13.1 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. He’ll share some of the frontcourt minutes with Flagg, but he’s looking forward to playing alongside the 18-year-old rookie. He reflected on the moment he had in Las Vegas with his teammates and the embrace of Flagg’s highlight moment.
“It’s just fun, too,” Marshall said. “Not just because it was over Bronny. It could’ve been anybody. It was good to see. Encouraging my teammates. He’s young so I’m sure that made him feel good.”
More Mavericks Coverage
Find more Mavericks coverage from The Dallas Morning News here.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Naji Marshall’s experience with the Dallas Mavericks has been exciting and fulfilling. From watching Cooper Flagg’s highlight moment in Las Vegas to participating in the Mavs Academy Hoop Camp, Marshall has shown his dedication to the team and its fans. As he enters his second season in Dallas, Marshall is looking forward to playing alongside Flagg and contributing to the team’s success.
FAQs
Q: Who is Naji Marshall?
A: Naji Marshall is a professional basketball player who plays for the Dallas Mavericks.
Q: What is the Mavs Academy Hoop Camp?
A: The Mavs Academy Hoop Camp is a youth basketball camp hosted by the Dallas Mavericks, where kids can learn basketball skills and meet the team’s players.
Q: Who is Cooper Flagg?
A: Cooper Flagg is a professional basketball player who was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks as the No. 1 pick.
Q: What is the significance of the moment when Flagg rose over James and drained a midrange shot?
A: The moment was significant because it showed Flagg’s skills and potential as a player, and it was an exciting moment for the team and its fans.
