Mac McClung despite exciting start with Warriors Released by the team on Monday –And it wasn’t a decision the team made lightly.
The 23-year-old guard quickly became a Dub Nation player to watch after stunning the NBA world by impressing on the court at Summer League. Surreal pre-match dunks in Japan.
On Tuesday, Warriors coach Steve Kerr explained why the Warriors released McClung and brought in former first-round pick Ty Jerome instead.
“I think we were more interested in a pass-first point guard,” Kerr told reporters. “It was hard letting go of Mac. I love him so much and I think he’s his NBA player.”
With viral dunks, McClung has shown his ability in Golden State on several occasions. He has been outstanding in action in his league this summer, averaging 13.4 points, 3.6 assists and 4.8 rebounds per game, shooting 45.6% from the field and 50% from his range from 3-point range. did.
his impressive show won him 1 year non-warranty contract He moved to the Warriors in July and was able to contend for one of the team’s final roster spots in training camp.
McClung had nine points, two rebounds and two assists in a 104-95 victory in Game 2 of the preseason at Saitama Super Arena in Japan.
Ultimately, though, McClung wasn’t a good fit for the Warriors’ offense, which relies heavily on ball movement.
“But I think we needed more pass-first guys on our roster. Ty is a very interesting player because of his size and ability to see the top of the defense and his pick-and-roll play.” said Carr. “So it’s a great opportunity to watch him and have him play with our guys.”
The Warriors and Jerome have agreed to a deal, the team announced Tuesday, though details were not provided.
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The 6.5-foot guard was drafted 24th overall by the Suns in the 2019 NBA Draft and spent one season with Phoenix before being traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2020 as part of a deal for Chris Paul. .
While Jerome looks for new opportunities with the Warriors, it’s clear the team and Kerr wish McClung the best while he looks for his next opportunity.
