Takeaways From the Sixers Rookie Introductory Press Conference

Sixers' rookies Jaden Springer (28th pick) and Charles Bassey (53rd Pick) had their debut in front of the Philadelphia media this morning for their introductory presser. The press conference lasted around 40 minutes, with all of Sixers Beat in attendance. Here are a few take aways from what both Springer and Bassey had to say this morning:

Jaden Springer -

The first round product out of Tennessee had nothing but good things to say about the Sixers organization and players. Jaden said former Tennessee Vol player, Tobias Harris, was the first person to reach out to him, congratulating him on being selected by Philly. Springer also said he talked to Harris a couple of times in the past 12 months, while he was a student-athlete at Tennessee.

Springer was asked if there were some players he models his game around, he mentioned players such as Chris Paul and Bradley Beal, but particularly stated that he watches a lot of Jrue Holiday film. Holiday, a former Sixer, was a huge piece on the Bucks championship run this month.

When asked about any type of improvement his game might need heading into his first NBA Season, he stated that he thinks he can improve a little bit of everything, become a better all-around player. He also highlighted that he has made it a point to improve his jumper, handle, and explosiveness this summer.

When Springer was asked about what he thinks he brings to the Sixers, he had some very encouraging words. "I feel like I'd be able to bring some toughness and physicality on both ends of the court. I also feel like I can be a secondary playmaker, whatever you need me to do."

When the Sixers picked Springer, there was a lot of speculation surrounding his shooting from behind the arc. When he was asked about only taking 46 threes during his freshman season, he said "I feel like I definitely should have taken more 3s, (but) I was just sticking to the game plan."

Defense obviously played a big role into the decision to draft Springer at 28, he seemed very confident and aware on defense at his time at Tennessee. During the press conference, he did not hesitate to say that defense is something that comes natural to him.

Charles Bassey -

The 53rd pick out of Western Kentucky was a highly touted prospect coming out of high school. Dealing with injuries throughout his college career, his stock has fallen quite a bit, but the Sixers believe they got a steal with their 2nd round selection.

Much like Jaden Springer, Charles Bassey also said that Tobias Harris was the first person to reach out to him from the Sixers. Great to see Tobias taking more of a leadership role.

One of the more interesting statements from the press conference was Charles Bassey saying he has worked with Drew Hanlen for a number of years. Hanlen is of course the trainer of Joel Embiid. Bassey said he has played against Joel in 5 on 5 workouts.

Bassey stated that there is some excitement in the Sixers camp surrounding his outside shot. He says they were surprised at how well his 3 point shot progressed as the draft was approaching. He also made it a point to say he is going to showcase his shot behind the arc during the upcoming NBA Summer League.

On asked what he can bring to the Sixers, he immediately mentioned his rebounding, switching on screens, and blocking shots as well as his overall high effort.