PHILADELPHIA -- In order to make it in the NBA, a player has to find their role and excel in it. Whether that's being a ruthless scorer, handle the defensive end of the floor, be a playmaker, or doing the little things, if a player can excel in a role, they will last in the league.
Philadelphia 76ers big man Jabari Walker is in the midst of understanding that message as he enters his fifth season in the league. He has played well in the preseason as he has found his niche as the guy who brings his hard hat on a daily basis, knocking down open 3s, and doing the dirty work.
He has learned a lot from newcomer Dean Wade who does the same type of work and he has carved out a role for himself in the league.
"Right away, he was just somebody that just came
in, just how he is on the court, how he's off the court," Walker stated of Wade. "He's super composed. Just takes his time is very comfortable with who he is. Doesn't rush anything. Doesn't overcomplicate anything. I think that's why he's such an asset, and that speaks so highly of him."
Wade is with the Sixers on a 4-year $39 million deal. As Walker moves forward in his own career, Wade is somebody who he has circled as the biggest example to learn from. If he can do the little things, be a great teammate, and such, then he is going to be able to earn his big payday as Wade did.
"You realize sometimes simplicity is just key, and you don't overdo it," Walker added. "And I think it kind of confirms a lot for me with what I'm learning and where I'm growing. Seeing guys like that get paid, it’s like OK, just knock down the corner three, play defense. You know, be out the way, be a great person, and that's the road I'm trying to follow."
This article originally appeared on Sixers Wire: Sixers big man Jabari Walker singles out Dean Wade as he moves forward
