Payton Pritchard reflects on adjusting to the NBA

Payton Pritchard is a key player in the Boston Celtics' second unit. This season, the Celtics guard averaged 9.6 points, 3.4 assists and 3.2 rebounds in 22.3 minutes per game, a career-high.

Last year, Pritchard played just 13.4 minutes per game and reportedly requested a trade from Boston. In October, the 26-year-old agreed to a four-year, $30 million contract extension and was given a larger role within the rotation.

According to Inside The Celtics, Pritchard placed an emphasis on a growth mindset during his time in Boston.

“Since I’ve been in the league, I’ve adapted it. I think that's the only reason I've been able to grow every year because there have been some frustrating times where, you know, in those times you can kind of give up and just give up, but in those times you grow through them and keep learning and getting better and learning from every single person you meet.”

Pritchard spoke about maintaining confidence during performance slumps.

“I mean, I try to be. But I mean, there are definitely dark, dark days. I mean, there are frustrating times, especially last year, when you go through phases, you don't play well, it's tough. But somehow you have to look in the mirror every morning and just know what you are capable of and the work you put in. I really think what matters with all the work is the hours I put in. It's just that trust is built. And now I just feel like I can compete against anyone.”

Pritchard talked about having to adjust to the NBA after college.

“It's very difficult. You have to remember that every player in the NBA was the best guy on their college team. Definitely the best guy on their high school team. So they've been taking 20 shots a game their whole lives .So when you get into the league it's almost like a shock, you have to figure out how to interact with it differently. So I think it's an adjustment a lot of young people don't get used to the league, but those who do that become successful. You just have to take it step by step. You know, if you want to be the best player, you have to get through the clay role and then develop and move on in that role.”