Darko's First Day
Jonah BallowWolves Editor/Writer
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Just when his rugged exterior seemed to deflect any sort of happiness, there was a glimpse of a small smile on Sunday night in the Wolves locker room.
"I thought it was exceptional for [Darko]. He received a warm reception, and the fans appreciated how he played, the style of ball that he brings to us. Even a chance to get him back in the ball game, those are all strong messages to him, he's appreciated and wanted here. His teammates saw a little bit of how to play with him. He's going to be somebody everybody is going to want to play with, just cause of his capabilities and his strengths. He looked like he was having fun and enjoyed playing out there," head coach Kurt Rambis said.
The former No. 2 overall pick, Darko Milicic has not experienced a pleasant stint in the NBA since the Pistons drafted him in 2003. He was seldom used in Detroit, Orlando, Memphis, and New York this past season. The lack of playing time for an extremely talented big man has created a negative aura around the left-hander.
On Sunday, Darko spoke to the media for the first time during the Wolves morning shootaround with obvious hesitancy about discussing his basketball future. Along with Rambis, he explained a serious concern surrounding game conditioning for the contest against Oklahoma City. Darko, Rambis, the Wolves', and even the strong contingency of fans had no idea of what to expect during his first game in a Minnesota uniform.
"It was a good first experience. I didn't expect to play as much as I did. I didn't expect to be able to play that much. I fought through the first run, and it was hard. After that, my legs were out, but that's regular for not being in shape. I felt pretty good," Darko said.
At the 4:32 mark of the first quarter in the midst of raining chants for Darko, the seven-footer entered the game for Al Jefferson. About three minutes later, Darko recorded his first points in front of the ultra-supportive homecrowd.
For the next 25 games, Darko will have the opportunity to rekindle his love for the game and quite possibly remove the chip off his large shoulders. In 19 minutes of court time, Darko surprised the coaching staff along with his fellow teammates, producing eight points off the bench. Darko added eight boards, including significant fourth quarter action as the Wolves attempted a comeback victory.
"Yeah, I think this team is a young team with a lot of talent. We have a lot of talent here," Darko said.
The Minnesota fan base showed good ol' Midwest love for a 25-year old man that has endured a rocky NBA road. He is intriguing to say the least with a deep outside shot, high basketball IQ, and length at the center spot. Tonight, Wolves Nation caught a glimpse of the upside, more importantly; Darko enjoyed a positive reception, which led to a long-awaited smile.
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