Luka Garza has been one of the most acclaimed players in the NCAA during his four years in Iowa. His case is one of those who, despite being dominant players on the college circuit, are questioned to reach the NBA for their deficiencies physical. The charismatic center knows that to reach the best league in the world with guarantees, he had to drastically change his physiognomy to adapt. And that he has done since last March, going from the 123 kilos to the 110 that he currently marks.
“I feel much more mobile. Not only for moving less weight, but everything I have worked to improve my lateral movement and agility ”, said Garza with satisfaction. “I am not a world elite, but I am getting better and I am trying to maximize my athletic potential.” With 24.1 points, 8.7 rebounds and 1.6 blocks averaged during his last year, the center was clear that his room for improvement was to alleviate the defensive disadvantage that his presence away from the rim implies. In agility trials prior to the draft, Garza was 47th out of 55 players who showed up for them.
Still, he has been voted 52nd by the Detroit Pistons and Dwayne Casey, his new manager, seems satisfied with the choice. After the first preparatory training sessions, the coach has seen his new player more than good. “He has had no problems. He has passed over his rivals on the boards and quickly coming back on the defensive balance. He is in good shape, it has been a success of the team of scouting“.
Despite being voted the best player in his conference and several times All-American, Garza knows he will have to work hard if he wants to have a shot in the NBA. “I know my role, I’m not going to be the guy to shoot a hundred times a game. But I’m going to make sure to help the team get the best shot option. “
(Match photo by Nic Antaya / Getty Images)
