Projected 2023 lottery-pick Amen Thompson talks his game, more
ATLANTA – I made my second trip to Overtime Elite this week for the league’s first-ever playoff series.
They didn’t disappoint.
But, one of my headliners heading into the event was both Amen and Ausar Thompson, two projected lottery selections in next year’s NBA Draft. I had the chance to cover both of them during their time at Pine Crest School in Florida.
Both Thompson twins are competing in the OTE Finals for a chance at winning $10,000. They have both been vital parts of their team. As for Amen, his squad came out victorious in game one and he had one of the most efficient stat lines out of any member of either squad.
In 29 minutes of game action, he scored just nine points on 2/2 shooting, including one three-point field goal. In addition, he had four rebounds, four assists, two steals, and two blocks. He only recorded one turnover as well and his pro potential was showcased on Wednesday night.
Thompson’s other made field goal? A monstrous poster over his talented teammate Davion Mace, who was celebrating his birthday, that had the entire Overtime Elite arena jumping.
“I wanted to give him a birthday present,” Thompson said jokingly.
But in all realness, Thompson said he wanted to bless his friend on his birthday.
Moving on to the serious stuff: The draft talks.
Thompson is projected as a Top-10 selection in next year’s draft by multiple outlets. Well-respected for his explosiveness, his defensive identity, and his High-IQ. NBA scouts want to see his shooting improve but just can’t pass up the fact that Thompson is 6’7 with a polished handle, tons of athleticism, and elite playmaking ability.
I asked Thompson about those lottery projections and what areas of his game he feels he needs to improve on from a pro perspective.
His answer stood out:
“Just everything,” Thompson said.
“I can just get better at everything. Even though I’m considered a top prospect I feel I’m still very raw and can work on shooting, passing, defense, ball handling, and winning games.”
Him saying that even made me wonder, how scary can this kid be when he really evolves. Thompson has already stood out as an elite-level, special talent to me, but him still saying he’s raw and wants to improve in every single aspect makes me wonder what a developed Amen Thompson is going to look like.
Thompson and Team OTE, are one win away from the finals. So, what is the message to his teammates prior to tonight’s game two?
“Just play harder than we did [In game one] and go 2-0.”
With a championship in reach and a shot at $10,000, I expect tonight to be Amen Thompson’s night.