After having a dominant career at the high school level, former five-star recruit Gradey Dick spent one season at Kansas. Playing for Bill Self and the Jayhawks was always a dream of his.
Now, Dick will have the chance to turn yet another dream into a reality. On Thursday, the 6-foot-8 shooting guard will be selected in the 2023 NBA Draft.
We caught up with Gradey Dick to discuss his lone season at Kansas, his NIL journey, joining the Philips Norelco OneBlade Team and more.
All Glory to God…❤️ pic.twitter.com/Kjb9xeDE57
— Gradey Dick (@gradey_dick) March 31, 2023
The Spun: Has it sunk in yet that you’re about to become an NBA player?
Gradey Dick: A little bit. It’s hard though because the process is so quick. I feel like I’ve been in seven cities in just the past week. I think it’ll sink in once it’s all said and done.
The Spun: What would you say was the best college environment you experienced outside of Allen Fieldhouse?
GD: I always talk about how crazy Allen Fieldhouse is. I think our rivalry game against Missouri was intense. The crowd was packed before we got in the gym. It was a fun game for sure.
The Spun: Was it tough to get ready for the NCAA Tournament because Bill Self was dealing with a medical issue?
GD: It was definitely tough seeing Coach Self go through that, but at the same time, we had a lot of guys in the locker room communicating with him more than people thought. It was serious, but we still felt coached by him. The main priority through it all was his health. We knew we had to do our job with a “next man up” mentality. Coach [Norm] Roberts did that in a big way. It’s just basketball at the end of the day.
freshman @gradey_dick picks up his own set of awards with All-Big 12 Second Team, Big 12 All-Newcomer Team and Big 12 All-Freshman Team ???? pic.twitter.com/YtxmyXcvzj
— Kansas Men’s Basketball (@KUHoops) March 5, 2023
The Spun: How did you handle the NIL aspect of the NCAA while being a student-athlete? Did you find it challenging?
GD: It was great. It allowed me to meet new people and experience things I wouldn’t have done without it. My agency kept me focused through it all. Some guys can get distracted by the money coming in, but I kept the main thing the main thing. Basketball got me here, so I kept my whole attention on that.
The Spun: Does NIL money make it harder to leave for the pros?
GD: I can see it being a factor for players making a decision like this. For me, the NBA has always been my dream. I don’t think there’s any amount of money that could persuade me to do either or. I just want to chase my dreams. I was going to do everything in my power to be in this situation.
Philips Norelco.
The Spun: Speaking of NIL, can you tell us a bit about your partnership with Philips Norelco Team OneBlade?
GD: The best advice I got regarding NIL deals is to find things that fit your daily needs. Try to meet those people and get deals that’ll be beneficial to me. Grooming is a big part of my daily needs. I’m not growing a huge beard here, but I like to keep my routine. The Phillips Norelco team certainly help me with that.
The Spun: You recently talked about modeling your game after players like Paul George and Klay Thompson. Are you ready to go up against players of that caliber and see possible idols turn into rivals?
GD: It’s going to be respect first, for sure. It’s my job to go out there and compete though, so I think my competitive spirit will take over once I’m on the floor. It’s the same sport I’ve been playing since I was a little kid.
GRAD3333333Y pic.twitter.com/1ql03vWQ9i
— Kansas Men’s Basketball (@KUHoops) March 9, 2023
The Spun: What skill of yours will allow you to stay consistent during your rookie season?
GD: I’d say being a sponge on the court and in the locker room. I’m always trying to learn as much as I can. That’ll be beneficial to me. I’m going to learn as much as I can and make sure I stay on track.
The Spun: What will go through your mind the moment your name is called on Thursday night?
GD: It’s so hard to say because it’s one of those things where all the raw emotions will come out. We’ll see though.
With picture perfect shooting mechanics, toughness, a strong feel for the game and a confident, assertive demeanor, Gradey Dick has a high floor and plenty of upside to tap into long-term. pic.twitter.com/vVAL0j3ac9
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) June 16, 2023
Dick was highly productive during his only season at Kansas, averaging 14.1 points and 5.1 rebounds per game. Unsurprisingly, he earned Second Team All-Big 12 honors.
Most NBA analysts expect Gradey Dick to be a lottery pick in Thursday’s draft.
You can read more of our interviews with athletes and media stars here.
Stay connected with us on social media platform for instant update click here to join our Twitter, & Facebook
We are now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@TechiUpdate) and stay updated with the latest Technology headlines.
For all the latest Basketball News Click Here
