Excitement Abounds as Young Players Begin Practice

Both players and coaches looked invigorated to be on the court Tuesday as training camp officially opened for new Head Coach Randy Ayers and the Sixers. Rookies and players with three years of experience or less hit the court at the Sixers' practice facility at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), in the first practice of the 2003-04 season. The young players got a chance to show the results of their off-season work and to begin preparation for the season.

Ayers expressed his satisfaction at being able to put the questions and talk aside, and begin work with his team. In the team’s first few practices, Ayers said he plans to stress concepts, rather than plays.

“This is what we enjoy doing,” said Ayers. “Especially this time of year where you’re doing a lot of teaching and breaking things down with the younger guys.”

With the first practice day exclusive to the young players, the opening two sessions will be an opportunity for coaches to re-emphasize concepts taught during the Sixers’ summer league workouts. For returning players like John Salmons, who led the Sixers summer squad with 19.6 points per game, it will be a chance to prove themselves and earn playing time in the upcoming season.

“I gained a lot of confidence during the summer,” said Salmons. “But summer is summer, and now it’s time to focus on what counts the most.”

For forwards Sam Clancy and Samuel Dalembert, who each suffered left knee injuries prior to 2002-03 and missed the entire season, it is an opportunity to test their rehabilitated knees and get a feel for the game again. Neither player required knee protection Tuesday, and both looked entirely comfortable running the court.

“I’m ready,” said Dalembert. “Last year was painful for me but I feel great. I’m just going to go out there and play hard as usual.”

Ayers noted Dalembert’s progress and his eagerness to get back into the game, and compared Dalembert’s athleticism to Allen Iverson’s - a comparison that can only build confidence in a young player.

Sixers veterans are set to report to practice Wednesday and Ayers will look to them to provide leadership and to set the tone for the season. With teaching coming from the likes of Ayers, Bob Bender, Chris Ford, and Alex English, and leadership coming from players like Allen Iverson and Eric Snow, the future appears bright for the youngsters.

“Our goal is to win a championship,” said Dalembert. “We are a better team than last year, and we’re looking forward to it.”