Monty Williams hints Ausar Thompson could play right away with Pistons
Ausar Thompson has earned praise throughout the offseason for his play in various scrimmage games, and the fifth pick has put that on full display to begin training camp with the Detroit Pistons.
Thompson first had some encouraging play in the NBA Summer League. He averaged 13.5 points, 10 rebounds 3.5 assists, 2.3 steals and 1.8 blocks in four appearances. He stood out defensively, and was often a pest on that end of the court.
Pistons head coach Monty Williams has preached playing defense first this season, which is a perfect fit for Thompson. With his size and instincts, Thompson is already emerging as perhaps the top perimeter defender on the roster.
That could enable Thompson to see a large role to start the season.
“He has physical gifts and natural playing ability that allow for him to overcome some things that he might not know,” Williams said on Thursday, via James L. Edwards III of The Athletic. “We think he is going to be phenomenal. We think he is going to be an intricate part of our team and there is a chance that could happen right away based on what we’ve seen this summer and in camp.”
Monty Williams on Ausar Thompson pic.twitter.com/ooiLEpKQ8n
— James L. Edwards III (@JLEdwardsIII) October 5, 2023
Where Thompson fits into the lineup is still unclear.
He played more off of the ball with Overtime Elite but has the ability to have the ball in his hands, too. His versatility will certainly help his chances of playing a large role to start the year, and it could even earn him consideration as a starter.
He isn’t necessarily concerned about which position he is asked to play.
“I just try to do what I gotta do for the team,” Thompson said, via Woodward Sports. “I feel like basketball, the way we play, is almost positionless so I don’t even really feel like there is a position. My position is a basketball player.”
Regardless of where Thompson plays the majority of his minutes to start the year, the team is working to ensure the 20-year-old will be ready for that opportunity.
“We’ve loaded him up mentally so his head is probably spinning,” Williams said. “I don’t mind that. I think stress allows for all of us to grow. I think the more stuff we throw at him allows for him to grow. It also tells me who he is and how we can help him. We’ve hit him with a lot.”
