Tuesday Bolts – 8.23.16

Chad Ford’s first mock: “Many scouts walked away from Kansas’ practices last season feeling

that Bragg was the best NBA prospect on the squad. He can play both the 3 and the 4 and can score from anywhere. He’ll play a much bigger role on the team this year and could end up being a steal at this position in the draft.”

Durant on the Olympics: “It was therapy for me after making a big change in my life. It made my life easier … I knew [a backlash] was coming. It was definitely different for me, but to come here in an environment where people accepted me and didn’t care about anything except being my buddy, that’s what I needed.”

Westbrook v. Durant featured in NBA 2K17 trailer.

Zach Harper of CBSSports.com on Durant’s therapy: “While he still fielded questions about his decision to join the Warriors and what they could possibly be, the play on the court was a great escape for him, mentally. Now there’s just a little over a month until training camp begins and he can get to work for real in his new home.”

Nick Collison and Steven Adams hanging out.

Jackie Mac on Pop: “Indeed, USA Basketball boss Jerry Colangelo tabbed Mike Krzyzewksi to lead the 2008 Redeem Team, bypassing Popovich after a phone interview and a discussed face-to-face meeting that never materialized — a breach of faith that Popovich, who had built a life on being a man of his word, couldn’t reconcile. Colangelo’s public comments regarding the process irked Popovich and led to an icy relationship many thought would never be repaired. But when Colangelo reached out to Popovich last spring to gauge his interest in succeeding Coach K, Pop jumped at the chance, his patriotism superseding any ill feelings that he previously harbored.”

KD’s will become Legacy Grill.

Devin Booker on Ronnie Price: “Shoutout to my OG Ronnie Price on his new deal with the thunder. True professional.. Took me under his wing day 1 and helped me grow.”