Agent's Statement After 76ers' Matisse Thybulle Was Snubbed From Rising Stars Game is Amazing
By Karl Rasmussen
Philadelphia 76ers rookie Matisse Thybulle has been a revelation in the City of Brotherly Love, quickly becoming a fan favorite and frequently displaying his two-way prowess on the floor. But unfortunately for the 22-year-old, the work he's put in has not been sufficiently recognized by the NBA's assistant coaches -- or, as Thybulle's agent so contemptuously called them, "ASSistant" coaches.
In a statement submitted to Yahoo Sports, agent Eric Goodwin shared his client's disappointment over not being included in the 2020 NBA Rising Stars game before taking a not-so-subtle shot at the assistants who didn't vote Thybulle into the annual All-Star Weekend showcase for first- and second-year players.
Matisse Thybulle’s agent Eric Goodwin submits statement to @YahooSports on behalf of client being snubbed from Rising Stars game. Notice reference to “ASSistant coaches.” pic.twitter.com/Fu7Y3HVjR1
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) January 31, 2020
Goodwin admitted the Washington alum is unhappy about the snub, and ripped the league for excluding players who primarily excel defensively from the weekend's festivities.
Makes no sense. Matisse Thybulle is already one of the NBA's best defenders and coaches didn't put him in the freaking Rising Stars game? Come on. Not to mention he's 36% from 3 and plays team basketball. Thybulle should be rewarded! It's just the Rising Stars, but this is dumb. https://t.co/nmr8nIuAs1
— Kevin O'Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) January 31, 2020
Thybulle's value in Philly extends beyond the stat sheet. Any Sixer fan will tell you he's worth much more than the 4.9 points and 1.6 rebounds he averages on a daily basis given what he provides on the defensive end.
In just 20.1 minutes per game, Thybulle also records an average of 1.6 steals, which equates to 2.8 swipes per 36 minutes. That's incredibly impressive for a rookie, and flashes the tremendous ceiling he has as a disruptor. If you were in his position, you'd be disappointed, too.