After shootaround in Chicago on Friday, NBA.com’s Chris Cason caught up with Iman Shumpert.
In the article Cason highlights how Iman and De'Aaron are having a playful conversation and this interaction alone sheds light on how Shump has had a hand in overhauling the culture in Sactown.
“He has the mindset to be a good defender and he’s able to pass that along to the younger players," says Head Coach, Dave Joerger. "I think he’s having fun playing basketball again. He likes our group and I certainly enjoy coaching him. He’s been tremendous for us.”
In his conversation with the NBA.com writer, Shump attributes his mindset to being on a championship caliber team in Cleveland. He knows what it takes to get to the next level.
“I’m a culture guy,” No. 9 revealed to Cason. “I sort of know all the familiar ingredients to get something going. Once everyone starts to buy in collectively, then that culture can start being built.”
Knowing the importance of getting his young teammates to be proud of the squad they represent, Shumpert focused his off-season on fine-tuning his skillset with famed NBA trainer, Chris Johnson.
“I’m not at all surprised at how he’s helped changed things in Sacramento because I know he’s providing guidance in the locker room and away from the court," says Johnson of the charismatic Kings veteran.
“It feels like night and day from last year," says Kings guard, De'Aaron Fox. “A lot of it is because of the influence he’s had on us young guys. He’s brought that championship culture here. He has a lot of character and a lot of personality. That, and a whole lotta swag on and off the court. He’s helped us in more ways than just one.”
From teammates, to coaches and fans, it’s clear that Iman has turned Sactown upside-down. There is a culture shift and Shump is ensuring the Scores is here to stay.