The 2019 NBA Finals were the beginning of a turbulent phase in the Bay Area. The catastrophic injuries to Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson robbed the Golden State Warriors of a 3-peat. A few weeks later, “The Slim Reaper” signed with the Brooklyn Nets, marking the end of an era.
Heading into the 2019-20 season, the Warriors were also without Thompson, who needed to recover from his torn ACL. Adding to Coach Kerr’s challenges, Stephen Curry fractured his hand in the fourth game of the season. The Dubs have the worst record in the league (15-50).
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Fortunately, the Warriors landed the second overall pick in the 2020 draft. Selecting the 6’11” center James Wiseman gave the roster size and versatility. The 2019 Tennessee Mr. Basketball drew comparisons to Chris Bosh, who said the following about the rookie.
“I truly believe in Wiseman. All he has to do is set screens for Steph and Klay (Thompson) and roll, and he’ll be open all next season…..They just have to really enjoy the situation that they’re in right now,” said Bosh.
Wiseman’s arrival in the Bay Area
Making his debut in the 2020-21 season, “J-Wise” recorded 19 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 steals and was 7-for-13 from the field. Unfortunately, the Tennessee native could only play 39 games in his debut year due to a torn meniscus. Undergoing surgery, Wiseman was set to miss considerable time in his recovery.
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The following 2021-22 season saw the Warriors returned energised and ready for title contention. Thompson’s return further boosted their chances. More than a month away from the 2020 Playoffs, Wiseman was assigned to the G-League.
The former Memphis Tiger was ruled out for the season after suffering a setback in his recovery. Despite not playing, the Warriors big man won his first championship in 2022. Making his comeback in the 2022-23 season, the 6’11” center was rather inconsistent and struggled with his performances.
Shipped to Detroit
Ahead of the 2023 February trade deadline, the Warriors decided to trade “J-Wise” to the Pistons for Gary Payton II. Gaining more minutes on the court, Wiseman did account for some impressive performances, but concerns regarding his consistency remained.
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Ahead of the 2024-25 season, the Nashville native decided to sign with the Pacers. Playing the season-opener, Wiseman tore his left Achilles tendon. In February, the former champion was dealt to the Raptors. Waived shortly after, the 2019 Gatorade National Player of the Year is without a team today. A sad situation for the former second overall pick.
Currently, focusing on his recovery, Wiseman will be fighting for a second chance in the NBA. The 24-year-old center did show glimpses of a talent in the making, but injuries derailed his journey. Considering their constant struggles to find a big man, it remains to be seen if teams in the league will give him that chance.