Pittman Improving with Skyforce

December 4, 2010

With the lack of playing time Dexter Pittman received with the Miami Heat, the team shipped him out to the Sioux Falls Skyforce to get some game experience and develop his skills. Three games into his stint with the Skyforce, Pittman is beginning to show his worth as a serviceable and valuable big man.

November 27th was his first game in the D-League and he turned out a solid nine points, nine rebounds performance, with five of his rebounds coming on the offensive glass. He played a total of 26 minutes that game. Since then, Pittman has earned more playing time, capitalizing on the opportunity.

In the last two games, he has averaged 18 points, 12.5 rebounds and 1.5 blocks. Pittman also continued dominating the offensive boards with an average of 5.5 in those games.There's no doubt the Heat would love that kind of production from their rookie if he is able to translate it at the next level.

Now, even though the D-League is a clear "step down" from the NBA level, the talent that Pittman is playing against is not to be brushed aside as unworthy opponents. In fact, 63 former D-Leaguers found their way onto opening day rosters in the NBA just this season. Some notable players in that list include Aaron Brooks, Matt Barnes, Brandon Bass, Shannon Brown and Ramon Sessions.

With that said, Pittman is getting reps against players that someday may be in The Association, thus making his experience with the Skyforce a valuable one.

Stay tuned for more updates on Pittman as the D-League season progresses. The Skyforce's next game is tonight versus the Reno Bighorns, followed by a match-up Tuesday against the Austin Toros.