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Josh Giddey fronted the media in a rare appearance as the Australian basketball star opened up on what he described as a ‘tough’ NBA season with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Giddey, 21, has endured a difficult third campaign in the NBA, with leaked social media images leading to allegations of an inappropriate relationship with an underage female.
The Melbournian won’t face charges relating to the allegations, with cops in California deeming there to be ‘no corroborating evidence’ to stand up the claims. The NBA is yet to conclude its own investigation into the episode.
Elsewhere, Giddey has been subject to trade speculation, with Boomers legend Andrew Gaze suggesting the Thunder may look to offload him given the rise of guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and forward Jalen Williams.
But Giddey proved he is still very much capable of being the leading man for the Thunder, producing a game-high 24 points on 9-0f-15 shooting, with six boards, six ᴀssist and two blocks in the win over Toronto.
Josh Giddey has opened up on what he described as a ‘tough’ season
The Australian has been out of form and faced allegations away from the court
And after the game, Giddey was candid about his season.
‘It’s been a different year for me,’ Giddey said via news.com.au.
‘With guys coming in, sacrifice is needed for a team like this and the success we’ve had requires that.
‘Guys have done a great job of making the right play and we’ve got so much talent on this team it’s not going to be everyone’s night every night.
‘Guys have done a great job being unselfish, making the extra pᴀss and making the extra play and that’s where I think we’ve had success so far.
‘I’m just trying to get back to me. I thought tonight was a good step in the right direction in terms of confidence and decision-making.’
Giddey also said he understands that his development will take time but insists he has an iron-strong mentality.
Giddey says he can see light at the end of the tunnel
‘It’s not going to be overnight. It takes time. Progress is never linear,’ he said.
‘I’m 21 years old, I’m going to go through tough stretches as I’ve been through most of the season, but I’m trying to not let it faze me.
‘It is tough at times when you go through these stretches you’re in the middle of and it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. But you’ve got to think big picture.
‘Everyone goes through this. I’ve been good having people to lean on. Teammates, coaches, external people that have been awesome in helping me deal with that.’
