When the Golden State Warriors drafted Jordan Poole in 2019 out of Michigan, it surprised mock drafters — didn’t seem to fit the bill. Poole was said to lack discipline and didn’t have a sense of awareness.
Some things changed as time passed and the 23-year-old had postseason exposure. Some haven’t. But he has the perfect resource to learn from.
Steph Curry.
“I get to ask Steph what he sees and what he went through (earlier in his career),” Poole told NBA.com writer Mark Medina. “He’s one of the greatest players of all time. He has seen as many coverages, if not more, than some of the greatest players. It’s awesome to blend his perspective into my own personal style of play. It helps me learn and find ways to grow.”
Jordan Poole and Steph Curry with the wholesome content😂pic.twitter.com/uWDPfLEptv
— Warriors Nation (@WarriorNationCP) February 14, 2023
Poole’s been getting more minutes on the defensive side with Steph out with a knee injury. It’s been an imperative part of his game. Head coach Steve Kerr even said if Poole’s defense is on point, it could determine the outcome of the game.
For Steph, he’s been able to see every type of gameplan during his tenure. Poole has been able to see what the Warriors have been able to do with, and without the two-time NBA MVP.
“It’s awesome to be out there with him and see what it’s like to play off of him, learn and ask him questions,” Poole said. “But it’s also a really fun challenge to play without him and try to lead a team at the highest level. I embrace everything. All the obstacles and challenges are really exciting and fun.”
(GSW) Klay Thompson o25.5 PTS -110 (DK) 1U
– Over in L6/7 W/O Curry (Missed LG – 23.8% FG & 23.1% 3PT)
– WSH starts 2 big making them incredibly slow & prone to 3's from PER Players (Poole/Curry combined for 28 3PTA LG) Klay was OUT
– Only + DEF (Deni) in starting lineup will… pic.twitter.com/JbaGCitMp9— Atomic (@AtomicOVO) February 13, 2023
As far as the details of what Poole has learned from his teammate?
“I would love to give you all of these answers, but these are high-level FBI questions,” Poole laughed.”I can’t give the secrets away. These aren’t even my secrets. These are Steph’s secrets.”
Poole acknowledged he has a lot of learning and growing to do, and he’s doing everything he can to embrace that. His curiosity alone helps to motivate him with asking questions.
Kerr noticed Poole has been letting his guard down more which will reflect on the court. Until then, having Steph Curry in his corner is one of the biggest flexes a young player could have.
