Ben Saraf’s 40-Point Outburst Shakes Up the G League
Ben Saraf delivered a jaw-dropping performance recently in the G League, lighting up the scoreboard with an impressive 40 points. His display demonstrated not just remarkable shooting range, but also an uncanny ability to finish at the rim while setting up his teammates for high-percentage looks.
“The shots were falling. I was able to get to the rim and make good decisions. I was really in the flow,” Saraf reflected on his standout game. His approach to the competition remains consistent, emphasizing hard work and fundamental principles. “The mindset [in the G League] is the same mindset. Just to go there and play hard. It’s the same principles as here, just more reps. So I’m trying to take advantage of it.”
Coach’s Praise and Future Potential
Brooklyn Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez was keenly aware of Saraf’s performance, highlighting that it could have been even more prolific. “He was composed the whole game,” Fernandez remarked. “Obviously, he scored 40 points, but he looked like an NBA player out there. We watched the game and how confident he was, how he shot the ball, how he shot the three, and his finishes around the rim. If he would have finished a few more at the rim, he could have scored 50.”
Fernandez noted that Saraf’s self-critique is a testament to his drive and potential. “And those are the challenges. He’s really hard on himself. And that’s why Ben is so great, and he will be a great NBA player. But I was happy that he helped the team compete and get a win. That’s got to be the main purpose, whether you play here with the Nets or in Long Island, is you want to help the team compete and then come out with a win.”
Navigating the NBA Transition
Saraf’s journey has been closely monitored since he was named the Nets’ starting point guard on opening night. However, injuries and the inevitable adjustments that come with adapting to NBA life led to his recent demotion. Nevertheless, he continues to shine with qualities that can’t be taught, honed through his experience playing professional basketball overseas.
Michael Porter Jr. shared insights on the unique perspective that overseas players bring to the league. “When you first get to the NBA, it takes a minute to not look at these superstars as you did when you were growing up watching them,” he explained. “Overseas players, it’s a little different, because they’ve been playing pro so long. I noticed it in Ben, talking to coaches about Ben, just how he is in open gym, just how impressive he’s been to me. He’s 19, and just his level of professionalism, just walking around, is well beyond his years.”
As Saraf continues to navigate his early career, his recent performance serves as a beacon of the potential that lies ahead. With each game, he reinforces the notion that he belongs among the best, and his journey in the G League is just the beginning of what could be a remarkable path in professional basketball.
