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It’s fitting that Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has named his new clothing line Never Give Up.
Similar to how Russell Westbrook has crafted a brand around Why Not?, Caldwell-Pope, now 31, has built a professional career rooted in unwavering self-belief, enabling him to overcome early career challenges. Caldwell-Pope was selected as the eighth overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons, who hoped he would contribute to restoring their defensive identity, which had waned since their championship days a decade prior. Many scouts ranked him as the third-best shooting guard of that draft class, behind Victor Oladipo and Ben McLemore. Questions about his shooting ability persisted, particularly as Georgia failed to qualify for the NCAA tournament during his two seasons there.
Today, KCP is a two-time NBA champion and a quintessential role player known for being an excellent teammate. He has established himself as a dependable shooter, boasting at least 38.5 percent from three-point range in each of the last five seasons, all while maintaining his reputation as one of the league’s premier wing defenders.
After joining the Los Angeles Lakers in 2017, he played a vital role in helping LeBron James and Anthony Davis secure the championship in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic bubble. (Caldwell-Pope’s connection to super-agent Rich Paul has led to speculation that his signing foreshadowed James’ arrival in L.A. a year later.) During the 2020 Western Conference Finals, Caldwell-Pope significantly limited Jamal Murray’s effectiveness while shooting an impressive 44 percent from beyond the arc.
Fast forward three years, and Caldwell-Pope transitioned from Washington to Denver, where the Nuggets needed a shooting guard to alleviate Murray’s defensive workload. Once again, Caldwell-Pope excelled, shooting 44 percent from three in the Western Conference Finals, this time against his former teammates in a Lakers sweep. In the NBA Finals against the Heat, he delivered a decisive play with a key steal of a Jimmy Butler pass in the final moments of the Nuggets’ title-clinching Game 5 victory.
As his eleven-year NBA career continued, Caldwell-Pope entered this past summer among the league’s top free agents. Remaining in Denver felt unlikely, as the Nuggets would have become a second-apron team had they retained him. However, he attracted interest from numerous contenders. Rather than join an established playoff team, he chose to sign a three-year, $66 million deal with the rising Orlando Magic, affirming the team’s commitment to building through size and defense. Orlando has shown significant improvement, increasing their win total from 22 to 47 over three seasons, and KCP’s decision was as much about their future as it was about his own.
“Music to our ears,” remarked Magic coach Jamahl Mosley. “You talk about someone who embodies everything we strive for and how we want to operate organizationally? You want to defend, you want to be a good person, a family man. You want to perform well, be selfless, and professional. How can I teach our players to exemplify“`html
“and dreams become reality.”
(The subsequent interview has been shortened for brevity and clarity.)
How did you inform “him” about your departure from Denver?
Who are you referring to?
Typically, during free agency, my agent advises me to refrain from discussions, so he can manage that aspect for me. Unfortunately, I didn’t have the opportunity to converse with anyone while making my choices. However, after my decision was made, I received congratulations from everyone. We still share a brotherly bond.
When it comes to your life, every detail counts. How did you determine your priorities?
My family came first in my list of priorities. Ensuring that they are in a good position is crucial. Additionally, I consulted with my agent to evaluate the numbers, considering that side of things. I also focused on the team and organization where I felt I could contribute best and make a significant impact immediately. A lot of factors influenced my decision, including the relationship aspect: Who wanted me? I didn’t want to be overlooked. Orlando recognized my value. Observing their organization and coaching staff, I was already familiar with some members of the staff. I’ve faced several of their players in competition for a long time. Watching them throughout the season significantly influenced my choice regarding where I wanted to be.
Did they show up at your door at exactly 6:01 on June 30th (the moment free agency began)?
My agent knows the specifics better, but Orlando was among the first teams to reach out as soon as I became a free agent, which I greatly appreciate. I’m genuinely thankful for the opportunity to bring my value and championship mindset to this team, while also providing leadership to the younger players.
You had numerous options. What made Orlando stand out?
The youthful core they possess. Most of the players from last year are still around, with some new additions. That core genuinely believes in and trusts one another. Watching how they played, it was evident that they prioritized the team over individual accolades. The rapid growth of such a young team speaks volumes about them and their organization. This simplicity made my decision easier. They ranked among the best defensive teams last season, which contrasts with my own strengths—defense. It felt like a seamless fit; I could integrate without overstepping. My conversations with the younger players often revolve around defense; they seek my insights into what they might overlook, and I provide input. There’s a strong eagerness to learn among them.
Are they aware of their limitations?
That’s a challenging question. They all listen well. While everyone is entitled to their opinions, the young players here are generally receptive. Many younger players may not be coachable, thinking they know it all, but I appreciate that our group engages in dialogue. At the start of training camp, we emphasized the importance of communication. Though there’s always room for growth, witnessing our discussions helps strengthen our dynamics both on and off the court, particularly as we spend time together.
What insights do you share with Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner?
My goal is to help them find easier scoring opportunities that require less offensive effort. As we approach critical moments in games, the ball will often be in their hands. As their teammates,“`html
Rondo and all those guys, including Jamal, it all comes down to spacing. They’ve emphasized this crucial aspect. The more effective our spacing becomes, the more we can optimize our offense. When the ball is moving freely across the court, it becomes considerably tougher to defend against. That’s the biggest challenge.
The primary focus of my conversations with him—and pretty much everyone else—centers around defense. Offensively, I’m confident in their abilities to score. They know how to put the ball in the hoop. However, many players shy away from defensive work. Fortunately, this team is different; everyone is eager to defend. They are motivated to get out there and contribute.
All summer long, they’ve been reflecting on their Game 7 against Cleveland.
I appreciate that they’re keeping that memory alive; it fuels their drive. I truly believe they should have clinched that game. In the critical moments, shots were made, but a series of errors crept in. That’s a big topic in our training camp conversations this year—emphasizing communication on both sides of the court and honing in on focus and discipline. Trusting one another is vital; it’s essential to know where our teammates will be. If we can maintain open lines of communication and unity, we could achieve great things together.
I recall when Detroit selected you and how much Joe (Dumars) believed you embodied their team ethos.
It’s been a while since we last connected. I recently ran into JD and his son, and we had a good chat. Detroit gave me my start, and I will always be grateful for that. They laid the foundation of my career, instilling humility and fostering a deep love for the game. Stepping into a franchise like Detroit during the Bad Boys era and being part of that legacy while playing at The Palace—it was significant. I had the opportunity to play alongside Chauncey Billups and Tayshaun Prince, who were part of that legacy, and Rasheed (Wallace) was one of our coaches. That mentality still influences me today, instilling a strong work ethic, resilience, and a relentless drive to succeed.
When speaking with a young player, what advice do you share about longevity in the league?
I avoid preaching and instead offer practical advice. I emphasize the importance of simplifying the game. Coaches often bombard players with information. Personally, I focus on being an effective defender. If I know I’m in this for the long haul, it’s crucial to find ways to simplify my approach, both for myself and for my teammates. Overcomplicating things leads to confusion. Patience is key, as is the commitment to improvement. Everyone’s eager to work hard and be part of the team, which is always positive.
What are your plans once your playing days are over?
Golf is on my radar. I’d rather not dwell on it right now. My wife hopes I’ll play for 20 years.
Twenty?
That’s her vision; she insists that I have the potential. Perhaps she sees something I don’t. I told her we can revisit this discussion at Year 15 to reassess how I feel then.
(Photo of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: Julio
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: From Lottery Pick to Champion—The Journey Behind ‘Never Give Up’
Early Life and High School Career
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, born on February 18, 1993, in Thomaston, Georgia, was destined to make his mark in basketball. Growing up, he faced several challenges that would shape his determination and resilience. Caldwell-Pope attended Upson-Lee High School, where he quickly became known for his scoring ability and defensive prowess. His high school performance earned him a spot among the top shooting guards in the nation, setting the stage for a promising collegiate career.
College Career at the University of Georgia
Enrolling at the University of Georgia in 2011, Caldwell-Pope continued to showcase his skills. Playing under coach Mark Fox, he developed into one of the top players in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). During his sophomore season, he averaged 18.5 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game, leading the Bulldogs and drawing attention from NBA scouts.
- Notable Achievements:
- SEC All-Freshman Team (2012)
- First-Team All-SEC (2013)
- NBA Draft Lottery Pick (2013)
Transition to the NBA
In the 2013 NBA Draft, Caldwell-Pope was selected 8th overall by the Detroit Pistons, marking the beginning of his professional journey. The transition from college to the NBA was challenging, but Caldwell-Pope embraced the opportunity, determined to prove himself as a valuable asset on the court.
Rookie Season Struggles
Like many rookies, Caldwell-Pope experienced ups and downs during his inaugural season. He faced fierce competition and struggled with consistency, averaging 5.9 points per game in his first year. However, his work ethic and commitment did not go unnoticed, as he gradually earned more playing time and responsibility within the team.
The Rise to Prominence
Over the next few seasons, Caldwell-Pope’s game began to flourish. He became known for his ability to shoot from beyond the arc and his tenacious defense. His breakout moment came during the 2015-2016 season when he averaged 14.5 points per game, becoming a crucial part of the Pistons’ playoff run.
Perimeter Defense and Versatility
One of the standout aspects of Caldwell-Pope’s game is his perimeter defense. He quickly earned a reputation as one of the best defenders in the league, capable of guarding multiple positions. His skills in navigating screens and disrupting opposing offenses made him invaluable, especially during critical playoff moments [[1](https://www.nba.com/nuggets/news/nuggets-2023-24-season-in-review-kentavious-caldwell-pope)].
Career Highlights and Achievements
| Year | Team | Points Per Game | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013-2014 | Detroit Pistons | 5.9 | Rookie Season |
| 2015-2016 | Detroit Pistons | 14.5 | First Playoff Appearance |
| 2017-2018 | Los Angeles Lakers | 13.4 | Improved Shooting Percentage |
| 2020-2021 | Los Angeles Lakers | 9.7 | NBA Champion |
NBA Championship with the Los Angeles Lakers
In 2020, Caldwell-Pope achieved a career milestone when he helped lead the Los Angeles Lakers to the NBA Championship. This victory was significant not only for the team but also for Caldwell-Pope personally, as it validated his journey and hard work. Throughout the playoffs, he demonstrated clutch shooting and defensive toughness, earning the respect of fans and peers alike.
Impactful Playoff Performance
During the 2020 playoffs, Caldwell-Pope contributed crucial points and defensive stops in key moments. His ability to hit timely three-pointers and lock down opposing scorers was instrumental in the Lakers’ success. He finished the playoffs averaging 9.7 points while shooting over 38% from three-point range.
Continuing the Legacy: Trade to Denver Nuggets
In the summer of 2021, Caldwell-Pope was traded to the Denver Nuggets, where he continued to make an impact. His experience and defensive skills were pivotal for a Nuggets team looking to contend for a championship. Caldwell-Pope’s role as a versatile defender and reliable shooter was critical as he adapted to the new system under head coach Michael Malone.
Defensive Prowess in Denver
As of the 2023-24 season, Caldwell-Pope has remained one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA. His ability to navigate screens and disrupt pick-and-roll plays has made him an essential piece of Denver’s defensive strategy. His experience and leadership qualities have also played a vital role in mentoring younger players on the team [[1](https://www.nba.com/nuggets/news/nuggets-2023-24-season-in-review-kentavious-caldwell-pope)].
Benefits of Caldwell-Pope’s Approach to the Game
- Resilience: Caldwell-Pope’s journey from a lottery pick to a champion exemplifies resilience. He faced setbacks and challenges, yet he maintained his focus and drive.
- Work Ethic: His commitment to improving his game is evident in his gradual rise to stardom. Players can learn from his dedication to practice and self-improvement.
- Team Player: Caldwell-Pope’s ability to adapt to different roles on various teams demonstrates the importance of being a team player, contributing whenever needed.
First-Hand Experiences and Insights
Throughout his career, Caldwell-Pope has shared insights into his approach to basketball and life. He emphasizes the importance of staying grounded, working hard, and never losing sight of one’s goals. His mantra, “Never Give Up,” resonates with many aspiring athletes who face obstacles on their journey to success.
Conclusion
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope’s journey from a lottery pick to an NBA champion is a testament to hard work, resilience, and adaptability. His story serves as an inspiration for many, showcasing that with dedication and the right mindset, success is attainable. As he continues to excel with the Denver Nuggets, Caldwell-Pope remains a key figure in the NBA, embodying the spirit of perseverance.
