Hawks' Asa Newell reveals offseason training priorities before rookie season
Newell was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team, averaging 15.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, one steal and one block on 54.3% shooting from the field in 33 games. He ranked 14th in the country in offensive box plus-minus (plus-7.6) and 20th in offensive rebounds (110).
The 6-foot-10 forward said during the predraft process that he believes his shooting and defensive ability can translate immediately to the next level. He wants to be active in the gym and refine those attributes, as well as others, this offseason.
"I just got to get stronger, eat more, grow into my grown-man body and that's just growing up," Newell said. "Also, I just want to work on my decision making, consistency in my 3-point shot (and) ballhandling skills. Those are my top three priorities."
Newell became the first freshman to lead the Bulldogs in scoring and rebounding since Jumaine Jones during the 1997-98 season. He recorded six 20-point performances, en route to the fourth-most points in a single season among freshmen in program history (509).
The 19-year-old made a name for himself on the offensive glass throughout the season with his mobility and ranked among the leaders in the country in putbacks. He is working to refine his shot a bit this offseason and is comfortable showcasing it.
"We got a player who is a hard worker," Hawks general manager Onsi Saleh said. "The thing that I envision with Asa is that he is a winning player. He makes winning plays. You can see the freak athlete. He does a lot of different things on the court, but he is a winner. The culture he brought to Georgia and talking to Coach (Mike) White out there, he is a winner, and that's what we're trying to do here."
Newell carefully studied Hall of Famer Chris Bosh and Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon. He also pointed to Memphis Grizzlies power forward Jaren Jackson Jr. as someone he wants to develop like, especially on the defensive end of the court.
The former five-star prospect has been welcomed warmly by the team and players, with Trae Young among those who have checked in with him since the draft. He is appreciative of being with an organization that is supporting him from Day 1.
"I feel like Trae is an extremely talented point guard," Newell said. "He can knock down shots and is a tremendous passer. I feel like I can catch a lot of lobs from him. He was actually the first player to call me, too. Just knowing I have support from the players and an All-Star like Trae, it means a lot."
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