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Miami Heat second-year forward KZ Okpala enjoyed his only season on the team’s development program.
You are now ready to contribute.
Okpala, 6-foot-8, is in position to compete for more playing time this season.
“I imagined myself playing for so long,” Okpala said. “I think I am ready to play. I have learned a lot … I am 100% convinced that I am ready to play ”.
Okpala was the Heat’s second-round pick in 2019 behind guard Tyler Herro. While Herro was in the rotation from day one, the Heat were more patient with Okpala. He averaged just 1.4 points and one rebound in five games.
“I feel good about my development,” Okpala said. “I have gained a lot of experience and learning experience that you cannot take for granted. I think I’m in a good situation. I’m thirsty.”
Okpala, who played for Stanford in college, gained most of that experience playing for the Heat’s G League affiliate in Sioux Falls with the Sky Force. In 20 games, he averaged 11.7 points, seven rebounds and two assists. He felt the experience led to a great improvement, but he is set to become a major contributor to the Heat.
“You learn to play,” Okpala said of his time in the G League. “You learn that the G League is a very different game than college. I could see how my game would translate … I think it was very useful and very beneficial. “
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