How One Warrior Is Benefitting From Jeremy Lin's Presence
Santa Cruz Warriors guard Eli Pemberton discussed his transition to pro life and what he's learning from NBA veteran Jeremy Lin.
With multiple injuries in the front court, it would make sense if the Golden State Warriors’ next roster move helped reel in an extra big man. That could mean that the G League affiliated Santa Cruz Warriors’ multitude of talented guards might have to patiently wait their turn for a chance to don a similar uniform at the NBA level.
That’s quite alright by rookie guard Eli Pemberton, who is soaking up his first exposure to pro life before Santa Cruz opens up the season against the G League Ignite squad on Wednesday, February 10 at 11am EST on ESPN2.
“It’s been a smooth transition. I’ve been blessed with the situation I’ve come into because the Warriors have some vets. We have guys like Jeremy Lin, Isaiah Reese, Ryan Taylor, Dusty Hannahs, and Zach Norvell Jr — these guys have put in the work,” he said. “I’m a sponge myself, so they’ve just been giving me tips the whole time. It’s not easy. I have a lot of work to put in, but they’re all giving me the support I need as a rookie. My time will come, but for right now, it’s my chance to put in the time. I can already see the brotherhood that’s forming.”
Adjusting to the professional game can be a lot to take in for any player under normal circumstances. Already tasked with fitting in with their current team, minor league athletes must also refine their skills in hopes of catching the attention of an NBA squad. Factor in daily COVID-19 tests and life in a bubble, and it’s safe to say this is different than what a youngster may be used to.
But as far as Pemberton is concerned, he’s lucky.
“I was nervous. I’m not going to lie. I was getting frustrated during my first practice. It’s not that I played poorly, but it’s just an unique situation. Jeremy Lin reached out to me and tried to give me some confidence,” he explained. “From then on, I had a better second and third day. Not everyone is lucky enough to have that kind of reassurance, so I’m fortunate in this spot with teammates like that.”
Lin’s presence and respective return to the Warriors organization certainly makes Santa Cruz’s opening matchup against coveted NBA prospects Jalen Green, Isaiah Todd, and the rest of the Ignite squad a marquee one to watch. Lin’s notoriety is evident and his goal to return to the NBA is clear, but also worth noting is the impact he’s already having on the game’s younger up and coming talents.
Lin could be focused on stealing the show, but Pemberton is already benefitting from his good nature as a teammate and positive veteran influence.
“It’s a humbling experience to be next to Jeremy, who is not only just a great leader but somebody that has done so much for his culture. He’s a role model. I’m watching him all the time, especially how he moves and how he carries himself,” Pemberton added. “He speaks highly of other players and knows how to get the best out of them. His story and what he did for his country and culture is amazing. How do you not love that?”
At 23 years old, Pemberton was literally just a budding teenager when Lin first took the NBA by storm with Linsanity with the Knicks during the 2011-12 season. A Connecticut native, his dad is a Knicks fan. Pemberton spent his younger years molding his game after his favorite players and watching the Pistons. Around the time that Lin rose up, Andre Drummond (also a Connecticut native) was making his mark in Detroit.
Pemberton is coming off a strong collegiate career at Hofstra University, where he averaged 17.6 points on a 45/38/85 clip to go with 5.6 rebounds and 1.3 steals as a senior. The 6’5”, 195 pound guard is ridiculously active off the ball and agile around the hoop. He makes things happen with hustle plays, which should bode well for him at this level.
The youngster says he’s working on improving his long range shooting. A big part of that will be trusting Lin’s instincts to help him find the right spots and spread the floor.
“I want to catch a rhythm. I’m constantly learning. Hopefully I find a rhythm and my confidence grows. It’s about getting better, at least 1% every day,” he said. “I can bring defense and make three’s. I want to do the right things, and make sure everything I do helps us get a championship. I think it’ll come down to defense.”
Pemberton seems to understand it’s the little things that will help him make an impact in the NBA. If he proves his worth, there’s an evident path through Santa Cruz. Last season, Jeremy Pargo received an NBA Call-Up. In 2018-19, Kendrick Nunn was promoted. The year before that (2017-18), Damion Lee found his way to The Association.
Could he be next up in a steadily flowing stream of Santa Cruz guards to take that next step? As the season gets underway, it could be worth monitoring his progress with that in mind. Having Lin in his ear certainly won’t hurt along the way.
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