Forward/Center Chris Ayer says simply what basketball means to him. “It’s all about the games.” The Sioux Falls Skyforce have 17 players to take 10 spots on the roster and the local media got their first look at many new facets of the organization as the NBA Development League season draws closer.

Uniforms, facilities, coaching staff and players are markedly different now than what was then at the close of the season in April. Overall goals are the same in the aspects of outscoring opponents and developing players for an NBA experience.

Coach Pat Delany is one of those first-timers and says through the first 5 days of sessions with the players, “Everybody’s been great and pushing it to the next level. Already they want to face other competition.”

A familiar face for the Skyforce is Anthony Mason, Jr. who took time during the 2012-13 season to play in Italy and Venezuela. His decision to return to Sioux Falls boils down to the Miami Heat taking over basketball operations. The Heat drafted him, Mason is familiar with what they do and knows the people. Having an NBA team taking over that aspect means, “A pro atmosphere and feel to the game. When you know you’re affiliated with the Heat and then knowing that their coaches came down to be a part of the team and that they’re hands-on. That gives you more security. All you gotta do (as a player) is work hard and bring your A-game.”

The season officially opens on Friday November 22 at the Sanford Pentagon. The players will get that chance to see somebody different as the Iowa Energy will play an exhibition contest with the Skyforce on Saturday November 16.

 

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