Jeremy Lin was officially introduced to the Charlotte media today as a member of the Hornets. He was incredibly relaxed and looked like he made a great impression on every member of the media. He definitely won over the media in Charlotte if he hadn’t already done so and he will look to do the same to every member in Charlotte with his motivated attitude to improve, his play on the court, and he actions off of it in the community.
To say the very least, this kid will be a great addition to the Hornets locker room. He has his head in the right place and really wants play and compete. Charlotte fans will love Lin, on and off the court, if they don’t already.
Here is a recap of the introductory press conference with Jeremy Lin and head coach, Steve Clifford, with quotes from both:
Clifford on the team’s off-season focus: “We spoke about the goal of improving our team offensively… I feel like we’ve added size and a lot of shooting… but the other component is the ability to create three-point shots.”
Clifford on Lin: “He has the ability to create offense for himself and his teammates.”
Clifford on the teams mindset for the off-season: “We started our off-season trying to improve our offense while maintaining an elite defense.”
Clifford on Lin’s ability to create offensive opportunities: “it’s just as important for teams to have the passers to create three-point shots as to add shooters.”
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Lin on being in Charlotte: “I’m excited to be here. Grateful for the organization and for coach. Can’t wait to get going.” He also said that the media in Charlotte is nicer than his other teams.
Lin on the Hornets coming to him in free agency: “Charlotte came in later in my free agency process. They made it clear they really wanted me and believed in me.”
Lin about the city of Charlotte: “I’ve always told my west coast friends that Charlotte was one of my favorite cities. It’s an east coast version of Palo Alto(where Jeremy grew up.)”
Lin said that he wants to get more aggressive and get back to playmaking. He also said that he can go left now, has less turnovers, has a better three-point percentage and plays better defense than two or three years ago. He states that, “I’m a more refined player.”
Clifford on Jeremy Lin: “He’s hungry to continue to improve. That’s not always the case in any pro league. He possesses those traits.”
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Lin said that last season was a huge growing experience for him.
Lin on expectations for next season: “Hopefully we’ll give the city something proud to cheer for. We want to make the playoffs and not just sneak in at the eighth seed.”
Lin also talked about how he loves the people of Charlotte and the city in general. He said how nice and charming everyone in Charlotte is and how everyone welcomed him and doesn’t always ask for autographs.
Lin on the team’s roster: “I feel like what I can bring to the table is what this team needs. …I try not to worry about the talent on the roster. I’ve been on teams that were really talented and didn’t do well and vice versa. Culture is very important.”
Lin also said that he worked with Hornets assistant, Stephen Silas at Golden State and felt more comfortable for Silas’ presence on the staff.
Clifford on the team as a whole: “We’ve improved offensively in many ways… more passing, more shooting, more creativity. I believe we’ve added guys who give us versatility.” Clifford also said that “there will be a lot more competition than in previous years.” And that he believes the Hornets have a playoff roster.