In this latest episode of The SchuZ Show, host Zach "SchuZ" Schumaker sits down with Oso Ighodaro, the 40th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft who was selected by the Phoenix Suns. This is Oso's fourth time appearing on the show, making him a familiar face for longtime listeners.
Oso begins by sharing that the reality of being an NBA player has finally set in, even if his day-to-day life hasn't changed too drastically. He notes that the biggest adjustment has been the increased emphasis on taking care of his body to prepare for the rigors of an 82-game season. Coming from Marquette, where there was one athletic trainer, Oso now has access to a team of nine, underscoring the professional resources available to him as a Phoenix Sun.
The conversation then rewinds to Oso's high school days in Arizona, where he won a state championship right before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Oso takes pride in representing his home state and believes there are many more talented basketball players to come out of Arizona. He also reflects on when he truly started to believe the NBA dream was a realistic goal, pinpointing his junior year of college as a pivotal turning point.
Oso's faith has been a central part of his journey, and he explains how it has grounded him amidst the fast-paced lifestyle of professional basketball. He shares that having a personal relationship with God has provided stability, especially during the valleys he's encountered. This spiritual foundation has been crucial as Oso navigates the newfound temptations that come with NBA success and wealth.
The discussion then shifts to Oso's recruitment process, where he ultimately chose Marquette over other options like Texas. He highlights the emphasis on culture and relationships under head coach Shaka Smart, which stood in contrast to his previous experiences. Oso also touches on the NIL landscape in college basketball, noting that he kept his focus on basketball and school rather than maximizing NIL opportunities.
One of the most compelling aspects of the interview is Oso's loyalty to the Marquette program and his core group of teammates. Despite constant portal chatter and NIL offers, Oso and players like Tyler Kolek, Stevie Mitchell, and Kam Jones remained committed to the Golden Eagles, prioritizing team chemistry and development over individual accolades.
As Oso transitions to the NBA, he expresses excitement about learning from veteran players like Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. He's eager to soak up their knowledge and emulate their professionalism, especially when it comes to taking care of his body. Oso also discusses the defensive identity he hopes to bring to the Suns, drawing comparisons to players like Draymond Green and Bam Adebayo.
In the final portion of the interview, Oso reflects on his draft experience, from the initial disappointment of not being selected on the first night to the eventual joy of being drafted by his hometown team. He shares the story of how he learned that he was traded to the Phoenix Suns after originally being drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers.
Overall, this interview provides a glimpse into the mindset and character of Oso Ighodaro as he embarks on his NBA journey with the Phoenix Suns. His faith, work ethic, and team-first mentality shine through, suggesting a bright future for the young center as he aims to make an impact both on and off the court.
Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/zof2CadugOw
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