The Philadelphia 76ers were eliminated from the Eastern Conference semifinals by the Miami Heat after a poor collective performance. But one of the few bright spots in their entire postseason was their sophomore guard, Tyrese Maxey. And Maxey has the fortune of sharing an agent with none other than former Heat player, LeBron James.
In many ways, this regular season was a breakout season for the 21-year-old. He made himself an integral part of the Sixers by starting 64 games more than he did in his rookie season. And he doubled his usage rate to 35.3 minutes per game.
Subsequently, the increased playing time directly led to an uptick in his numbers. Maxey doubled his points average from 8 points per game to 17.5 in 75 games played. Likewise, his assists and rebounds averages also went up by the double. He assisted at a rate of 4.3 assists per game and 3.2 rebounds per game.
And the young superstar in the making credits his agent, Rich Paul, for his advice dating back to the 2020 NBA Draft.
LeBron James agrees with agent Rich Paul’s advice
Maxey recalls Rich Paul’s wise words of advice to him as he grappled with the stress of falling down the draft order. Paul reassured him saying, “Fit over pick.” Furthermore, he explained how his agent ensured that he got somewhere where he can play right away, and also compete for a championship.
It’s always Fit over Pick!! Why be in position for now , when you can be in position forever , through opportunity!!! No matter what pick you are drafted , it’s the starting point , not the finish. #KlutchSportsGroup #KeepGrinding pic.twitter.com/KbwfOhbiWc
— Rich Paul (@RichPaul4) May 12, 2022
Subsequently, Tyrese Maxey was drafted at number 21. But has found far more success than many of his preceding picks. And has playoff experience galore too at his young age. One such player who found success right off the bat is LeBron James.
The only difference is LeBron was drafted in at number 1 and was always tipped to make the difference. But the future Hall of Famer wholly agrees with Rich Paul’s mojo.
Simply doesn’t get talked about enough! It’s beyond TRUE!!!! Seeing and Picking up bad habits from the moment you’re drafted can derail your career forever! https://t.co/dcBdSZa46k
— LeBron James (@KingJames) May 12, 2022
The NBA veteran that James is, this is sound advice to all the young players dreaming of playing in the NBA. And with the 2022 NBA Draft just around the corner, this is something a lot of prospects will have their hearts set towards.