Sergio de Larrea is looking forward to learning from Kyrie Irving, Cooper Flagg and the rest of the Dallas Mavericks during his rookie season, with the 25th overall pick particularly excited about developing his game alongside Irving.
“Probably to learn from everybody, you know, Kyrie, Cooper, but not just only for these two, for everybody. Learn, work and have the best season possible,” de Larrea said at Mavericks media day on Friday.
The 20-year-old guard has already spoken with Irving about playing the point guard position in the NBA. De Larrea said the veteran has been willing to share the lessons from his long career.
“Yes, for sure. He’s a leader at the end and he’s trying to teach what he has done until now, this is 15 or 16 season that he has been in the NBA,” de Larrea said. “He tried to teach this to the new guys, to all the guys that are there.”
“It’s perfect to have him to learn and to try to evolve my game in that way,” he added.
De Larrea also believes his experience with Valencia has prepared him for new head coach Dusty May’s preference for playing at a fast pace.
“I think it fits very well,” de Larrea said. “Last year in Valencia, we used to play that hard, that fast. So, I think I’m a little bit used to it. Probably here is faster.”
The Spanish guard said he is comfortable looking to attack quickly and make decisions early in possessions.
“I’m comfortable playing that style of game, trying to play fast, out of possessions, trying to shoot the best shot possible, but at the end, in the first eight seconds. So, I’m very, very confident with that.”
Passing is another part of de Larrea’s game that he believes can benefit Dallas. He said his goal is not only to create open three-point opportunities but also to find teammates when they are in favorable situations.
“I think my passing skills can help in this, to also win some games,” he said.
De Larrea also revealed that Ricky Rubio, Jose Calderon and Sergio Rodriguez were important influences on his development.
“These three guys were like, when I was young, I tried to be like them,” he said. “So, I try to take a little bit of everything to try to have the most complete package.”
De Larrea will also have a familiar face in Dallas in Santi Aldama, with the two having played together for Spain.
“It’s incredible to have him here,” de Larrea said. “For sure he’s helping me a lot with the transition.”
The two have known each other for three years and de Larrea believes their existing chemistry could translate to the Mavericks.
“I think we can build also a good chemistry in the game,” he said. “He’s probably a very good shooter. I can find him good spots.”
