The Toronto Raptors’ recently concluded 25-57 season had a silver lining with the emergence of lottery pick Gradey Dick as a promising NBA player. Veteran Garrett Temple of the Raptors praised Dick’s significant progress on the court, highlighting his ability to absorb coaching and elevate his game throughout his rookie season.
Gradey Dick, a Wichita native and former Kansas Jayhawks wing, was selected by the Raptors with the No. 13 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Despite modest statistics in his rookie season, Dick’s performance surged in the final month, demonstrating his potential with impressive scoring and rebounding figures.
The 20-year-old shooting guard showcased his talent with a career-high 24-point game against the Brooklyn Nets, hitting a season-best six 3-pointers. Dick’s improvement was particularly notable considering his slow start in the new year, where he initially struggled from beyond the arc.
Reflecting on his rookie season, Dick acknowledged the challenges he faced but remained resilient in overcoming them. He credited his parents’ wisdom about embracing struggle as a crucial aspect of personal growth. Despite the difficulties, Dick expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn and grow in the NBA.
Looking ahead, Dick is committed to refining his skills and physique during the offseason, aiming to become a more physical and versatile player. Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic emphasized the importance of Dick’s physical development, highlighting his potential to evolve into a more well-rounded player.
Throughout the season, Dick has garnered support and admiration from Raptors fans, who have embraced him as a symbol of hope for the team’s future. He expressed gratitude for the warm reception and genuine support he has received in Toronto, affirming his appreciation for the city and its passionate basketball community.
