LOS ANGELES, CA — The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Eastern Conference leading Philadelphia Sixers and their former head coach Doc Rivers, 122-112 on Saturday night at Staples Center.
Kawhi Leonard and Paul George played incredible basketball as the two combined for 52 points, however the real MVP of the game was none other than Terance Mann who finished with a career high 23 points in 29 minutes. Mann continues to play with an extreme amount of confidence and it’s showed the past handful of games with his ability to take the shot, find the open man, defend the opposing teams best player or bring the energy to the floor that the Clippers need in keen situations.
“I think our player development group has done a great job with T Mann’s shooting and his shot has changed, and (he’s) putting in the work every single day,” Clippers head coach Ty Lue said postgame.
Mann shot over 45% from the field in the last several games which is remarkable for a young player grasping the position. He’s averaged 15.5 ppg over the last five games.
With the heart of a lion, and the basketball IQ he possesses enables him to see things in a way that not only benefits him but his teammates as well. Mann doesn’t shy away from the opportunity to make solid and consistent plays, yet he remains locked in as many of his teammates have noticed his willingness to be great on the defensive side of the ball as well.
“He’s aggressive, he coming down hill attacking the paint and making plays for himself and others, “Leonard said. “With him it starts with his defense and coming out bringing the energy, getting in the passing lanes and rebounding. He’s really giving us that spark off the bench.”
Mann was a key factor in the Clippers come from behind victory against the Atlanta Hawks last Monday night, with his shooting and spark that lifted the team. Many of the veteran players have given him his respect from the sidelines like teammates Patrick Beverley and newly acquired vet Rajon Rondo.
His confidence is through the roof according to Lue, however he refused to discuss at this time if Mann’s minutes would be reduced once Beverley returns healthy and Rondo is able to play.
Even though Mann and the team remain locked in one game at a time, he’s still having fun while executing effectively on the floor.
“I’m having a lot of fun, being able to do what I do and be long and be aggressive,” Mann explained. “Guard the other team’s best players, guard shooters and I’m guarding all type of positions.“
The Clippers host the Milwaukee Bucks and Giannis Antetokounmpo on Monday night at Staples Center.
