The Brooklyn Nets kicked off their preseason with a commanding 123-88 victory over Hapoel Jerusalem, showcasing promising developments for the upcoming season. Head coach Jordi Fernández, now in his second year, has the team transitioning into a new era, and this match served as an early indication of the Nets' potential under his leadership.
Key Moments from the Game
The Nets dominated the game from the start, displaying a well-rounded offensive performance with 31 assists, surpassing last season's average. This improvement in playmaking reflects the coaching staff’s emphasis on ball movement and teamwork. Ben Saraf, the rookie point guard making his debut, stole the show with an impressive performance, scoring 20 points and dishing out several assists. His ability to lead the floor and connect with teammates may solidify his role as a starting point guard moving forward.
Noah Clowney also shone in the preseason opener, coming off the bench to deliver a perfect shooting night, hitting all five of his attempts. Clowney’s development has been a focal point for the Nets, and his performance reassured fans of his growing skill set. The team’s depth was evident, with multiple players contributing significantly to the scoreline.
Transitioning into a New Era
As the Nets look ahead, the team is in a full rebuild mode, marked by a young roster filled with potential. With an average age of just 25, including five rookies, the Nets are embracing a developmental year, which analysts suggest is necessary for fostering future success. The preseason opener highlighted this youthful vigor, as excitement surrounds the new talent on the roster.
Despite being labeled one of the NBA’s weaker teams in ESPN’s Preseason Power Index, the Nets are hopeful. The combination of promising young players and a new coaching strategy could pave the way for unexpected growth and competitiveness.
Looking Forward
In addition to their preseason opener, the Nets are preparing for a notable trip to China, marking their return to the country for the first time in six years. This trip not only serves as an opportunity for international exposure but also aligns with the NBA's goal of rebuilding relationships in the Chinese market.
As the Nets embark on this journey, they aim to not just showcase their talent but also to represent the franchise positively on a global stage.
TL;DR
- The Brooklyn Nets opened their preseason with a 123-88 victory over Hapoel Jerusalem.
- Rookie Ben Saraf had a standout performance, scoring 20 points and leading the team.
- The Nets are embracing a full rebuild with a youthful roster, averaging just 25 years old.
- The team is set to travel to China for preseason games, marking a significant return to the international basketball scene.