The 2015-2016 Texas Legends season has commenced, as Frisco’s favorite NBA Developmental League team kicks off their home opener this weekend at Dr. Pepper Arena. Here are seven reasons why you need to scoop up the family and head out to some games this season.
Who will have a breakout season?
Whether it was P.J. Hairston during the Legends’ 2013-2014 season or Dwight Powell last year, every season brings a breakout performance by a member of the Texas Legends. If early returns mean anything, then watch out for former Xavier guard Tu Holloway (19.5 ppg) and Marquette stand-out Jamil Wilson (19.5 ppg, 9.5 rpg). And be sure to follow closely as Ray Parks Jr. starts to get in a groove.
Satnam Singh first professional season
Dubbed the NBA Draft’s “Most Fascinating Player,” Satnam Singh is sure to be a fan favorite. The 7’2” 52nd overall pick in last June’s draft, has already scored his first points as a professional.
With basketball’s progressive shift towards smaller, beyond-the-arc shooters, it will be important to have a large player with Singh’s skill-set that can not only protect in the paint but defend on the perimeter as well. For a first-hand look at the rising star, you need only purchase a ticket and head on out to Dr. Pepper Arena.
24 Charitable Partnerships Means…
24 Charitable Partnerships means that the Legends will be featuring 24 highly-stylized and unique jerseys during their home games this season. With partners ranging from Central Kia to Ruthie’s Rolling Cafe, you’ll definitely want to bring the whole family out to catch the latest Legends’ look.
Checkout each home game’s charitable partnership here.
What’s in store for the fans at the Dr. Pepper Arena?
The Texas Legends have the well-earned reputation for taking great care of their fans. From in-game entertainment to an excellent food and beverage menu, the Legends make you and your family’s experience a top priority. Whether it be the latest jersey, or a cool giveaway, you know you’re in store for high quality entertainment that caters not just to the hardcore basketball fan, but to the masses. There truly is something for everyone.
Nick VanExel as Head Coach
Long-time fan favorite, Nick “The Quick” Van Exel, took over as head coach of the Texas Legends this season. Many Dallas Mavericks fans remember Van Exel from his 2002-03 season in Dallas, when he averaged 12.5 points per game. During that season, Van Exel was a key contributor that helped lead the Mavs to the second round of the playoffs.
Van Exel has made it known that he will implement many facets of the Mavericks offense and defense into his coaching regiment with the Legends. What he brings to the team is not just on-court savvy, but also an upper-tier leadership ability, all wrapped up in a genuinely approachable demeanor.
Who will land on the Mavericks?
https://youtu.be/LVULuD-11ls
Last season, both Ricky Ledo and Dwight Powell were promoted to the Dallas Mavericks on several occasions. This year, there is no reason to doubt that a handful of Legends will find time on the Mavericks roster. Key to keep an eye on, are the aforementioned Singh, as well as Parker Jr. These two could be the first to earn a promotion from the D-League, to the NBA. Just think about how cool it will be to kick back and remember how you saw them way back when, starring in your very own backyard.
Will there be “bonus basketball” for the Legends?
Perhaps foremost on all Legends fans’ minds is if their favorite D-league team will be in store for some postseason basketball.
The D-league, with its precarious mixture of former NBA players and young up-and-comers presents a difficult mix to make the playoffs…any player that is tearing up the league risks promotion to its parent club, which ultimately is a great thing, but waters down the talent pool of their minor league team.
This year’s Legends roster boasts plenty of young talent, and come April, the chances are very good that Texas will be in the mix for a playoff shot.
Upcoming Texas Legends Games
Although there is no excuse not to see the Legends live, fear not as if you can’t make the games, you can always catch every Texas game on your tablet or computer via their Official YouTube Channel. And if you’re on the road, be sure to tune in to the official radio home of the Legends, on KGVI.