Video: Catching Up With Cole Aldrich

At last week’s NBA D-League Showcase in South Padre Island, DraftExpress caught up with Cole Aldrich and picked his brain about adjusting to pro ball. I’ll let you draw your own conclusions about the interviewer’s style. But give him credit for boldly bringing up Aldrich’s foul trouble issues and getting a decent response. No surprise that the word “process” appeared in the answer, though.

Aldrich, currently on assignment with the Thunder-owned Tulsa 66ers, has played extremely well of late. He’s blocked 21 shots in his past four games, including eight at New Mexico last Saturday. Entering tonight’s home game against Reno, Aldrich is averaging 9.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, 2.5 blocks, 0.9 assists and 4.1 fouls.

DraftExpress also conducted a quick interview with forward Latavious Williams, whose draft rights are owned by the Thunder. Williams spoke about his developing skills, which apparently are growing to include a mid-range game and some post-up moves. Also, Williams is starting to look noticeably bigger throughout his upper body, which is a great sign. Thunder heads will want to keep an eye on Williams. He’s averaging 13.7 points, 8.7 rebounds and 1.2 blocked shots in 28 minutes this year. He’s also shooting 66.7 percent, which leads the league among players with at least 50 shot attempts. And Williams doesn’t turn 22 until March. He could have a very bright future.

One last thing about the 66ers. Guess who’s leading the team in scoring? Remember Elijah Millsap, the gritty guard who stood out in the Thunder’s camp with his scrappy play? With Zabian Dowdell getting a recent call-up by Phoenix, Millsap’s 14.2-point average currently paces the 66ers in scoring.

-DM-