National Basketball Association

Houston Rockets Video Diary: Trevor Ariza post Practice, 9.30.16

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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Continuing the SCS Video Diary series next up Trevor Ariza spoke to reporters following the Houston Rockets practice September 30th.

As part of the core Trevor Ariza has seen both good and bad times with the Houston Rockets. His comments post practice were therefore extremely illuminating given how Trevor Ariza views this year’s Rockets team.

Highlights from interview:

Most questions focused on the new defense and Jeff Bzdelik’s system. Ariza was very complimentary of Bzdelik pointing to how he works on simple fundamental issues saying the team is working to build consistent habits. Drills are being run daily so the team develops those habits.

Trevor Ariza says Bzdelik has spent copious hours looking at other teams and developing defensive plans to counter each offense.

Training Camp 2016: Trevor Ariza 09/30/16 https://t.co/tXuJP1o9SP

— Space City Scoop (@SpaceCity_Scoop) October 11, 2016

Sep 23, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) during media day at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

When asked why this season is so different Ariza pointed to the energy on the team. Ariza said the players, coaches and everyone involved has brought a different energy to the court.

This statement points to how terrible the chemistry was on the team last season. So far the energy and improved chemistry has put the team well ahead of where they ended last season. I’ve said it probably a million times, but it doesn’t matter who you have on your roster, if they don’t get along the team won’t function as a unit.

More from Space City Scoop

Of all the changes made this off season Trevor Ariza’s comments on energy and chemistry are pointing to this squad enjoying each other. Whether that pays dividends on the court is yet to be discovered.

At least, through the early stages of training camp it appears the best thing Harden did in terms of his leadership was bringing a positive attitude both on and off the court. These players feel like they are a part of the bigger picture. That in itself is a huge step forward over last season.

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SCS video diary series offers insight from Training Camp and allows you to become more familiar with the Rockets new coaching staff and players. .

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