Nico Mannion told the media Wednesday afternoon that he expected to remain in the G League bubble for the duration of the Santa Cruz Warriors' season.
So it was a bit of a surprise when Steve Kerr called to let him know that Golden State was recalling him for the team's final two games before the NBA All-Star break.
Mannion also revealed that various members of the franchise reached out to him periodically to talk about his performances.
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"Draymond texted me a couple times, just giving me some feedback," the soon-to-be 20-year-old said. "He was watching some of the games. He'd send me clips here and there, asking me questions -- what I saw, [and] what he saw -- so more a conversation.
"I think that's huge in a guy like that. It really means a lot. It's cool to see guys like that who are watching [and] have your back in a way."
That definitely is very cool.
And it shows great leadership from Draymond.
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Mannion averaged 19.3 points, 6.8 assists, 3.3 rebounds and 1.8 assists over nine games with the Sea Dubs, while shooting 40.5 percent overall and 36 percent from beyond the arc.
"I feel way more comfortable, so I'm definitely gonna be a better player," the Arizona product said. "Whatever is asked of me is what I'll do.
"Whatever this team needs -- whatever coach wants to do -- is what I'll be ready for."
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