Aussie NBA draft slide and first chat with new coach: Inside the legitimately shocking journey.

Australian NBA player Johnny Furphy opens up on draft slide, comforting words from new coach after being overlooked in 1st round.

Johnny Furphy, Australia's newest NBA player, recently shared his experience of sliding out of the first round of the draft and the support he received from his new head coach at the Indiana Pacers. Despite being projected to be a late first-round pick, Furphy was ultimately selected 35th overall by Indiana after being overlooked by other teams.

In an interview with The Kansas City Star, Furphy described the uncertainty and challenges he faced during the draft process as "tough." The former Kansas Jayhawks wing expressed his relief and excitement upon hearing his name called, highlighting the emotional rollercoaster he and his family went through on draft night.

Furphy's father, Rich, also shared his perspective on the draft experience, emphasizing the hard work and perseverance that led to his son's selection. He revealed that Indiana coach Rick Carlisle expressed the team's excitement and belief in Furphy's potential fit within their fast-paced playing style.

Bill Self, Furphy's former coach at Kansas, commended the Australian player for his maturity and resilience in handling the disappointment of not being selected in the first round. Self also praised Indiana as a good landing spot for Furphy, citing the team's development opportunities and strong roster.

The Pacers' decision to trade up for Furphy received positive reviews from analysts, with experts like Danny Chau and Kyle Boone giving the pick high grades. Despite Furphy's unexpected slide in the draft, his size, athleticism, and shot-making abilities were highlighted as valuable assets for Indiana's offensive strategy.

Looking ahead, Furphy's potential for growth and impact in the NBA was underscored by projections and evaluations from experts like Kevin Pelton. With a focus on improving his shooting and defense, Furphy has the opportunity to become a key contributor for the Pacers alongside established players like Pascal Siakam.

Overall, Furphy's journey from draft night disappointment to NBA selection reflects his resilience and determination to overcome challenges. As he embarks on this new chapter in his basketball career, the support from his family, coaches, and team will be instrumental in his continued success on the court.

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