Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: Raptors fans see the chemistry on social media, but do you think the national media or the broader NBA audience is “late” to seeing what this team is actually building?

Gradey Dick: I don’t know if I’d necessarily say they’re late. With all the behind-the-scenes content on YouTube, people are starting to see our different personalities. But when you really pay attention, you see how close our bond is. That chemistry definitely translates from off the court to on the court.

Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: You have one of the smoothest jumpers in the league. Who did you pattern your game after growing up, and who helped you refine that shooting form?

Gradey Dick: Growing up, I watched a lot of film on Reggie Miller—specifically his release point and how he moved. But honestly, I was really taught by my mom. She played a year in Japan before the WNBA existed, and she helped me a lot with my shooting mechanics. I just try to take bits and pieces from Reggie’s game and implement them into mine.

Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: Being a Kansas native and a former Jayhawk, who are some of your favorite players to ever come through the Lawrence program?

Gradey Dick: First, I’ve gotta say Wayne Simien Jr. When I was little, he was the first Kansas player I ever really talked to. Then, of course, Conner Frankamp. He was only at KU for a bit, but he’s another Wichita guy, so I still work out with him when I’m back home. And probably after that, Andrew Wiggins.

Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: Every rookie has that “I made it” moment. When was the first time you saw yourself in NBA 2K, and do you actually play as yourself when you’re on the sticks?

Gradey Dick: [Laughs] I don’t get too locked into 2K—I play some other games—but when I do play sports games, it’s usually straight against my brothers. I don’t really play online, but when the game first came out, it was definitely one of the first things we did. As for how to use my character… you’ll just have to check it out and see!

Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: Growing up in Wichita without a local pro team, what was your first real “entry point” or connection to the Raptors organization as a fan?

Gradey Dick: As a fan? It was probably my first-ever NBA event. I don’t remember what grade I was in, but they had a preseason exhibition game at INTRUST Bank Arena in Wichita. We don’t have a pro team in Kansas, so that was the first real NBA atmosphere I experienced. It was actually the Thunder against the Raptors. I think Darko [Rajaković] was even an assistant with the Thunder at the time, so looking back, that’s a pretty cool full-circle moment.

Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: Finally, we have to ask—social media went crazy over your jersey swap with Anthony Black. Do you think the internet overdoes it sometimes with those moments?

Gradey Dick: [Laughs] Oh yeah, of course! People definitely overdo it. I think it’s funny, but social media over-exaggerates everything. When I did it, it was just a joke between me and a friend. I’ve been swapping jerseys since high school… though I probably won’t be doing that specific one again! [Laughing]

Grand Opening, Grand Closing