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Brooklyn Nets Coach Proud of Harry Giles III's Impactful NBA Comeback

Originally posted on FanNation Inside The Nets
By Peter Sunjic | Last updated 11/14/23

Harry Giles III was one of the best prospects in the Class of 2016. Ranked within the top two prospects by most scouts, he earned a spot at the prestigious Duke University, and despite a challenging freshman season, he embraced the opportunity and declared for the 2017 NBA Draft.

He sat out the 2017/18 season due to an injury but that hampered him for quite a bit. Giles struggled in his time with the team that drafted him, the Sacramento Kings. After they declined Giles’ team option for the 2020/21 season, he signed with the Portland Trail Blazers but he was mostly a backup on the bench, which was his final NBA stop before he landed at Brooklyn in 2023.

“Yeah, you see that smile on my face when you said Harry? I love saying good morning to him every single day, love, dapping him every single game,” Coach Jacque Vaughn said in his post-game presser after the Boston Celtics game. “The energy and juice he brings to our bench, he’s been consistent, competitive, he plays in our stay-ready group and gets the group going.”

Giles was productive in his first game for Brooklyn

Giles got his first minutes of the 2023/24 season in the In-Season Tournament game against the Boston Celtics. He only logged six minutes but he was pretty productive, scoring seven points. It was a good sign that Harry could contribute to the Nets roster if he is given extended minutes.

The big man out of Duke was not only thriving in the paint but he also nailed a three-pointer. This bodes well for the Brooklyn Nets, indicating that if he sustains this performance, he could make a compelling case for more playing time. Additionally, his success in transition aligns with the coach Vaughn's primary playstyle.

Giles can be a legitimate contributor to the Nets

The Nets continue to grapple with numerous injuries, creating opportunities for Giles to see more playing time. Although he faces competition from third-year center Day’Ron Sharpe for the backup center position, Giles possesses the potential to compete effectively.

Remember, he was one of the best prospects during his high school days. That kind of skill does not go away quickly. Giles still has some good athleticism but if he can put it all together with his growing shooting stroke and his relentless energy, he might have a spot on the Nets for a long time.

This article first appeared on FanNation Inside The Nets and was syndicated with permission.

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