Minnesota coach Richard Pitino has touted freshman Nate Mason as a player who could step in to take big minutes and immediately contribute to the veteran backcourt, particularly with the mature guard's defensive ability.
Mason, a Georgia native, has a good chance to be first man off the bench as he's capable of backing up either point guard DeAndre Mathieu or shooting guard Andre Hollins.
A quick conversation with the newcomer:
How has it been to come up behind veteran Andre and DeAndre, and have the ability to learn from them.
It's been great. They've been really helpful with answering questions and giving advice. That's the best thing I can get from them: leadership.
What has been the biggest transition for you?
Probably being away from home. I wanted to go far away, but I had to think about it. Now, I miss my family, I miss my mom, I miss my dad, so that's the biggest transition I think. I talk to them a lot. They send a care package almost every week. Things from home, sometimes they send me notecards.
What about on the court?
Probably the speed. In high school, it wasn't as fast as it is now. Dealing with a guy like coach Pitino, you've got to adjust very quickly. So that's the thing I think.
How has it been adjusting to Pitino's coaching style?
He's all about winning. There is no doubt about it. He's a young coach, fired up, chip on his shoulder, and that's the best type of coach to have. All he wants to do is win. And that instills that in our mindset.
Do you feel like you fit the new system?
Definitely. I like to play fast, he likes to play fast. I'm just here to get us in the best situation possible.
