Seizing the Moment: Norris Cole
On a team filled with NBA stars, and future Hall of Famers, it can be challenging for other players to shine with the rest. Not if you are second-year guard Norris Cole. The Cleveland native is steadily becoming one of the league’s brightest point guards.
Known for playing fearless defense, Cole has aided in the team’s success this postseason. Throughout the first eight games, Cole shot 73.3 percent from three-point range and 62.8 percent from the field, while averaging 9.3 points per game. As a result of his stellar play, Cole is also gaining something more valuable: the trust from his teammates and coaching staff. Cole has capitalized on his opportunities and has been rewarded with increased playing time. Last postseason, he averaged 8.9 minutes per game; however this year he is playing 22.1 minutes per game throughout the playoffs.
“He has so much more education and experience than he had last year,” said HEAT Head Coach Erik Spoelstra. “He’s earned a bigger role.”
Along with his offensive production, Cole has strengthened a part of his game that is still the team’s most important need, his defense. Cole’s ability to defend is generating much attention, mainly from his teammates.
“Norris’ ability, with his speed and his strength, is on defense,” said LeBron James. “I think he’s one of the best on-ball defenders that we have in the Eastern Conference, if not the whole league. He will get some credit on that soon.”
As the postseason continues, look for his confidence to grow. Cole was instrumental in Miami’s Eastern Conference Semifinal win over the Chicago Bulls. The standout point guard averaged 11.0 points per game, shot 69 percent (20-of-29) from the field and 81.8 percent (9-of-11) from three point range, while playing 22.9 minutes per game. The shooting percentages were the highest during a five-game series in HEAT playoff history. According to Elias Sports Bureau, when Cole knocked down his first eight three-point field goals to start the series, he became the only player in NBA postseason history to take as many as eight three-point shots and connect on them all over any three-game span within a single postseason. He also tied the record for most consecutive made three-pointers without a miss during a single game in HEAT postseason history, when he shot a perfect 4-of-4 from three-point range vs. Chicago in Game Two of the series.
With the support of his teammates, Cole has become a bright spot on a team that has outshined the rest of the league throughout the entire season. Cole is content with his progress thus far, but far from satisfied.
“Right now, I’m feeling pretty comfortable out there on the court,” Cole said. “That comes from the film session with the coaches. That comes from the habits being built up throughout this season, and we still have a long way to go, but I’m pleased with my progress so far.”
To see more from tonight's TIPOFF magazine, download the PDF here!
