While competing
Rathan-Mayes eager to impress Knicks
in the Orlando Pro Summer League recently, former Florida State guard Xavier RathanMayes found out that he’s going to the Knicks’ summer camp.
Former Florida State guard Xavier Rathan-Mayes received promising news while competing in Orlando Pro Summer League last week.
The undrafted rookie is going to training camp with the same team that signed him to a summer league deal, the New York Knicks.
“To play with the Knicks, a great organization like they are, it means a lot,” Rathan-Mayes said. “I’m definitely in a good position and I’m thankful for it.”
Rathan-Mayes said it took hard work to earn the invitation.
“Just training, grinding and trying to get better each and every day,” Rathan-Mayes. “I don’t have anything to worry about but just being a basketball player and being a pro.
“I pride myself as a hardworking guy. I try to train three
to four times a day and put myself in the best position to be successful.”
Rathan-Mayes’ work ethic was on display during the Orlando Pro Summer League last week, in part, because he is playing for something other than himself.
“To be able to represent my school, my city and my family it means a whole lot,” RathanMayes said, who grew up in the Canadian city of Scarborough. “Being around the guys, being around our coaching staff we have such upbeat guys and great guys in our organization so it’s fun to be around.”
Even though RathanMayes has been successful early on, adapting to the professional game remains a challenge.
Rathan-Mayes’ 6-foot, 4-inch frame as a point guard can help him adjust to the physicality of the pro game, but it can be a disadvantage as he works to keep up with speedy opponents and a rigorous schedule.
“The physicality and pace of play are the biggest things,” RathanMayes said. “Summer league is a grind with so many games in such a short amount of time, but it’s been fun and a great experience.”
While he was pleased to earn a spot on the Knicks’ training camp roster, Rathan-Mayes said he has a much bigger goal in mind.
“Make this Knicks roster and then to be a great player in the league,” Rathan-Mayes said. “Also to be successful and help an organization ultimately win a championship.”
“I’m definitely in a good position and I’m thankful for it.” Former FSU point guard Xavier Rathan-Mayes