Before Paolo Banchero could imagine the accolades that would come his way, like the saying goes, his mother knew best. 

“His freshman year in high school was when other people were like, ‘hey, you know you have an NBA-caliber kid?’” his mother Rhonda shared. Five years later, Banchero would become the No. 1 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. In his rookie season, he earned the 2022-23 Kia NBA Rookie of the Year award. 

“My game is just super versatile. I feel like there’s nothing on the court that I can’t do,” Banchero said. 

In the newest episode of “Pass the Rock” on the NBA App, Banchero discusses his love for the game taught by his mother and the uniqueness of his play style. The NBA Entertainment original provides fans with behind-the-scenes access into the lives of the game’s youngest stars both on and off the court.

In his sophomore season, the Orlando Magic forward is averaging 23 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists per game as the leading scorer on his squad.

“I just think my edge comes from my IQ,” Banchero said. “I try to be a step ahead, two steps ahead.” 

What was the origin of his on-court dominance? His very first move was taught by his mom, a WNBA alumni herself.

“The drop step was the first move that I was taught,” Banchero said, “She would teach me drop steps, left- and right-hand finishes, all stuff that helped me become a better player.”

You can watch Episode 3 of “Pass The Rock” now on the NBA App and NBA.com. 

The first two episodes of the second season of Pass The Rock focused on Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr. and Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards

Future episodes will feature New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson, Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton, Oklahoma City Thunder forward Chet Holmgren, Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey and San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama.