Jordan Poole talks about his role with the Warriors, coming off bench
It's been an important season for Golden State Warriors guard Jordan Poole, who signed a four-year rookie extension last summer that is worth up to $140 million with incentives. Through 58 games for the Warriors, the guard is averaging career highs of 20.9 points and 4.5 assists, to go with 2.8 rebounds in 30.7 minutes per game.
Poole spoke with Mark Medina of NBA.com about a variety of things including his increased role with the team this season, which he enjoys whether starting or coming off the bench.
"It’s cool," Poole said. "I try to do anything I can to try to help the team win. Whenever we’re winning games, I feel like I’m playing better. I’m able to be versatile and play in different situations. I start sometimes. Or I come off the bench and play the 1 or 2. Playing with different lineups adds to my versatility. I’m a big believer in trying to find ways to get better every day, whether it’s watching film, working on something in the gym or asking questions. I always think I’ll find ways to get better, whether I’m playing good or bad.”
There is definitely more on his plate this season for a Warriors team that is currently 29-29 and hold the No. 9 seed in the Western Conference. Plus, more is expected with him inking that big extension before the season.
“In order for [Golden State’s front office and ownership] to make a decision like that and for me to make a decision like that, they obviously thought I deserved it,” Poole said. “They like the character that I have, the way I can lead a team and everything else I bring on and off the court. With being able to be me in an organization like this, I try to bring positive energy. I’m grateful and appreciative.”
“I wouldn’t necessarily say there’s pressure. If anything, it’s more exciting to know I’m locked into the Bay for the next five (years),” Poole noted. “We can go through the highs and lows of whatever it is. I embrace that. At 23 years old, it’s a pretty cool challenge.”
You can read the entire conversation with Poole at NBA.com.