Rasheer Fleming found himself in a high-pressure situation against the San Antonio Spurs, missing two crucial free throws in the final seconds. It's the kind of moment that can define a young player's early career, and while it didn't go his way this time, it's all part of the learning curve.
San Antonio played it smart, forcing the ball to Fleming, knowing his 54% free throw percentage. The odds favored them this time.
The key for Fleming is to not let this moment linger. Confidence is everything for young players, and how he bounces back will be telling.
His post-game comments suggest resilience. "They both felt good.
I was calm," he shared with Suns beat reporter Duane Ranken. "The noise wasn’t affecting me.
I think they were good shots. Just rolled in and out.
I’ve been in that situation in college. I wasn’t feeling pressure to shoot them.
I just couldn’t hit them. It’s definitely a learning experience because this is my first time it’s happened to me in the league.
Just keep working on my shooting.”
Fleming's willingness to embrace the ball in crunch time is promising. "I didn’t feel the need to shy away from the ball.
If I’m in that situation again, I’ll be ready to shoot them again. I’m not shying away from the ball," he added.
Beyond those missed free throws, Fleming's performance was impressive. From a highlight dunk over fellow rookie Carter Bryant to a strong defensive stand against Victor Wembanyama, Fleming showed growth and potential.
With the season winding down and the playoffs looming, the Suns face a pivotal decision: Should they adjust their lineup and give Fleming the starting power forward spot over Royce O’Neale? It's a hot topic, with 61% of the community in favor of Fleming starting.
Fleming has certainly made a case for himself. Standing at 6’9” with a 7’5” wingspan, he provides the size and length the Suns have been seeking.
He spaces the floor and brings defensive prowess, fitting well into Phoenix's system. Over the past 13 games, he's averaged 18.5 minutes, 6.3 points, and 3.7 rebounds with shooting splits of 48/50/33.
However, his free-throw shooting, at 4-of-12 during this stretch, needs improvement.
His shooting touch is undeniable, ranking as the second-best three-point shooter among his rookie peers in March. The free-throw struggles should improve, considering he shot 74.3% from the line in college. With more reps and rhythm, he can find consistency.
Yet, experience matters, especially as the Suns eye a potential seventh seed and the intensity of Play-In basketball. Royce O’Neale brings that experience, spacing the floor and providing late-game reliability. He's the guy organizing plays, ensuring smooth execution-a role that can't be underestimated.
Fleming's time will come, likely as soon as next season. For now, continuing to develop him in meaningful minutes without the pressure of starting is the right approach.
His growth is evident, and while he hasn't claimed the starting role just yet, the conversation itself is a testament to his potential. His moment is on the horizon, just not quite here yet.