BEING OVERLOOKED

On his journey from mid-level recruit to college All-American to first-round NBA Draft pick: “When I look back and think about how I was in high school — a guy who was not ranked, really, and I remember texting Paul Biancardi, asking if he could rank me. I remember all of these stories when I was just, like, one of those kids that wanted to be one of those top guys and was never really considered that. And then to see myself and where I am now, and how much I’ve accomplished over past couple of years, it’s not only just a blessing, but I’m thankful for everyone that was around me at Tennessee, and even before them — my high school coaches, too. They really made me the person I am today.”

On whether his high school coaches were trying to take all the credit for his success: “They kind of laughed. They said, ‘You know what they say about NBA guys. They say they’re a testament to their high school coaches. Really that’s where all your learning comes from.’”

On fellow Charlotte native Steph Curry also going from mid-level prospect to stardom: “He was a three-star, just like me. Steph Curry was right there at my rival school. … It’s crazy.”