The Dallas Mavericks have had a disappointing preseason campaign, losing all three games. However, amidst the gloom, there is one player who has been shining bright – 21-year-old Jazian Gortman. The young star has been turning heads with his impressive performances and has caught the attention of his teammates, including Daniel Gafford, who has showered him with praises.
“He’s just real energetic. He brings a lot of energy… He’s always ready to go,” said Gafford about Gortman, highlighting his infectious energy and enthusiasm on the court. But who exactly is Jazian Gortman and how did he end up playing for the Mavericks at such a young age?
Gortman was born on October 31, 2000, in Dallas, Texas. He attended South Oak Cliff High School, where he quickly made a name for himself as a talented basketball player. In his junior year, he averaged 17.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, leading his team to a 25-7 record. His impressive performances caught the attention of college scouts, and he received offers from several top universities.
However, Gortman had a different dream – to play in the NBA. He made the bold decision to leave high school early and pursue his dream. This decision was met with skepticism and criticism from many, but Gortman remained determined to prove his doubters wrong.
He joined the NBA G League Ignite team, a developmental team for top prospects who want to skip college and go straight to the NBA. Gortman’s decision paid off when he was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the second round of the 2021 NBA Draft. He became the youngest player in Mavericks history to be drafted at just 20 years old.
Gortman’s journey to the NBA has not been easy. He faced many challenges and obstacles along the way, but his determination and hard work have helped him overcome them. He has been working tirelessly to improve his game and make a name for himself in the NBA.
In the Mavericks’ preseason games, Gortman has shown flashes of his potential and has impressed his teammates and coaches. He has displayed his versatility on both ends of the court, with his quickness, agility, and scoring ability. In the game against the Utah Jazz, he scored 14 points in just 16 minutes, showcasing his offensive prowess.
But it’s not just his on-court skills that have caught the attention of his teammates. Gortman’s work ethic and attitude have also been praised by his fellow players. He is always the first one in the gym and the last one to leave, putting in extra work to improve his game. He is also known for his positive attitude and team-first mentality, making him a valuable asset to the Mavericks.
At just 21 years old, Gortman has a long way to go in his NBA career, but he has already made a strong impression on his team and the league. He has proven that age is just a number and that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
Gortman’s journey to the NBA is an inspiration to young players who dream of playing at the highest level. He has shown that it takes courage to follow your dreams and that hard work and dedication are the keys to success.
As the Mavericks gear up for the regular season, all eyes will be on Gortman to see how he performs on the big stage. With his talent, work ethic, and positive attitude, there is no doubt that he will continue to impress and make a name for himself in the NBA.
In conclusion, Jazian Gortman is a rising star in the NBA, and his journey to the league is a testament to his determination and hard work. At just 21 years old, he has already made a name for himself and has the potential to become a key player for the Dallas Mavericks in the future. As he continues to develop and improve his game, we can expect to see more of his impressive performances on the court. The Mavericks have a gem in Gortman, and the future looks bright for this young star.
