Brad Stevens didn't have a direct say in Kemba Walker choosing to sign with the Boston Celtics.
But the Celtics coach lucked out in landing a player he's kept tabs on for years.
Stevens, who watched Walker in high school and coached against the ex-UConn star in the 2011 NCAA title game while at Butler, raved about his new point guard Tuesday night in Las Vegas.
“Obviously, he’s a great player,” Stevens said during a press conference at NBA Summer League. “He's been able to continue to get better and better and better as his career has gone on.
"He’s made himself into an excellent shooter, he’s great off pick and rolls, he’s got incredible speed, can see the game, can read the game. All that stuff is well-documented. He’s an awfully good player, and we’re excited he decided to come to Boston."
Walker inked a four-year, $141 million max contract with the Celtics just as All-Star point guard Kyrie Irving was heading out the door to join the Brooklyn Nets.
Stevens once again is tasked with managing an overhauled roster, as Al Horford, Terry Rozier and Aron Baynes are gone with Walker, Enes Kanter and a four-player rookie class replacing them.
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But the C's coach is well aware of what Walker brings to the table -- the young guard led UConn to a 12-point win over Stevens' Butler squad in that 2011 title game -- and believes he'll bring a positive energy to this new group.
"He’s always been a special competitor," Stevens added, "and I think that’s gonna be fun."
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