Brice Sensabaugh was realistic about what to expect in his rookie season in the NBA.
Coming off knee surgery that caused him to miss the final part of his freshman season at Ohio State — and nearly all of the NBA pre draft process — Sensabaugh knew he was a step away from making an immediate impact with the Jazz. Rather than sulk, Sensabaugh focused on his health and did everything he could to get back to full strength, including starting the year in the G-League with the Salt Lake City Stars.
Turns out that was the best thing for him.
Sensabuagh came along slowly while suiting up for the Stars, taking his time to find a rhythm and his shot — his best trait coming into the league. After dominating for the majority of the year in the G-League, Sensabaugh was ready when his name was called with the Jazz late in the season.
In 32 games (11 starts), Sensabaugh averaged 7.5 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. His production ramped up over the season's final two weeks, averaging 13.4 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 24 minutes per game. During that stretch, he dropped a pair of 22-point games (a career-high).
"I think it's been a long road for me, personally," he said. "Obviously, starting out where I did, starting out in the G-League, I think that was really important in my development and getting my legs under me with an NBA pace a little. I think that was really important for me to get my shot going so that I can pass the ball a little bit so I can carve out my role when I got up here. … It's kind of propelled ever since I got to the real affiliate."
With his rookie season behind him, Sensabaugh had a chance to reflect on how it all played out. While there were some definite highs and lows, the biggest takeaway for him was knowing that his shooting and scoring capabilities could translate to the NBA.
"It's done a lot for me. … It's been important just for me to know I can score on this level," he said. "I think the biggest thing was my jump shot, just feeling that out and I think it's gotten a lot better. Adjusting to the three-point line, I had to change my shot a little bit by getting stronger. … It started to fall a little bit more."
To evaluate his shooting prowess and navigate slumps, Sensabaugh studied many of the best shooters in the game. He noticed that Devin Booker shoots the ball from the midrange differently than when he launches from beyond the arc. He also noticed that Steph Curry — arguably the best shooter of all time — had multiple release points and trajectories, allowing him to get his shot off regardless of who was defending him.
"I think a lot of the great shooters around the league change their shot a lot," he said. "Just having the ability to change your shot at any time, trying to find the correct rhythm and just trust in my shot. … I made a few little adjustments — nothing too crazy — while I was in my little drought."
Being a student of the game worked, as Sensabaugh finished the year strong from beyond the arc. During February and March, when he was a part of the rotation full-time, he shot 20.3% from three on 3.5 attempts per game. He changed things around in April at the end of the year, shooting 43.2% from three on 5.5 attempts per game.
Sensabaugh can't wait for the offseason, knowing he's finally healthy and able to push the limits and work on his game.
"Knock on wood for sure, but it's super exciting," he said with a smile. "Going into the summer, it's going to be super exciting to work on my game all the way through. Continue to go and then kind of propel myself into training camp in season two. … I'm going to be working on stuff this summer to make big improvements. I think it's going to be a huge summer for me. … I'm looking to make a big jump."
When asked what he wants to work on, Sensabaugh noted that for him to really help the team next season, he will have to be in the best shape of his life. He wasn't able to be like that this year as he spent most of his time rehabbing, and he says he noticed that he wasn't as explosive and lacked the foot speed needed on the defensive end.
"Continue to work on my body, build athleticism and strength," he said were his priorities this offseason. "I've been working on it throughout the season, but obviously, it's hard during the year. … I think it'll be good for me, for my speed and athleticism. I think the finish of my rookie year has been that focus. … But like I said, whatever I can do this summer to make a big jump and keep perfecting my craft."
"On the offensive end, continue to read closeouts and work on my jump shot to become a great shooter. … On the defensive end, be a great team defender, be active, and give maximum effort," he added.
Despite all the highs and lows, Sensabaugh has remained positive throughout. He understands his situation and is making sure to enjoy every second of it.
"Obviously, this is my dream, and I've waited my whole life to get here. … It's been fun for sure," he said.