'Brazilian Kevin Durant' practices with Warriors, sets sights on joining forces with Steph Curry
The Golden State Warriors have been in the market for a big man and it appears Brazil's 6-foot-9 forward Bruno Caboclo is on their radar as they prepare for the upcoming season. The Sao Paulo native has reportedly been practicing with the Warriors in the hopes of earning a contract with the seven-time NBA champions.
According to BasketNews.com, Caboclo's agent, Daniel Hazan, confirmed that the 28-year-old is working out with Golden State as he hopes to make a return to the NBA.
"He will train with the Golden State Warriors until Thursday with the aim of signing a contract, and he believes he will succeed," said Hazan.
Caboclo, also known as the "Brazilian Kevin Durant" due to his size, footwork, and ability to put points on the board, is regarded as one of South America's top players.
Caboclo spent the last few seasons in Europe but does have experience in the NBA. After starting his career with the Brazilian club Pinheiros, he was selected by the Toronto Raptors in the first round of the 2014 draft.
He also had stints with the Memphis Grizzlies, Sacramento Kings and Houston Rockets and featured in 105 NBA games.
The thought of partnering Caboclo with All-Stars Steph Curry and Draymond Green is a mouthwatering prospect for a Warriors fanbase that is coming off a disappointing 46-36 season.
After winning four championships in the last decade, Golden State fans have high expectations and will be hoping the Brazilian star can be the missing piece on Steve Kerr's roster.
Warriors keeping tabs on forward Bruno Caboclo after strong performances at the 2024 Paris Olympics
Bruno Caboclo was one of the standout players at the Paris Olympics. He led Brazil to the quarterfinals before going down against a star-studded USA team.
After a sluggish start to the tournament where he played just 11 minutes, Caboclo impressed with six points in 13 minutes against Germany.
Coach Aleksandar Petrovic chose to stick with Caboclo in the following game. The decision paid off as he recorded 33 points on 13/19 shooting from the field in a victory over Japan.
Facing Team USA in the quarterfinals was a difficult task for Brazil but Caboclo battled bravely. He finished with a game-high 30 points and chipped in with six rebounds and an assist in the 122-87 loss.
Caboclo was the only player in the competition to record multiple 30-point games.
A string of eye-catching performances at the 2024 Paris Olympics means NBA scouts are once again keeping tabs on the versatile forward. The Warriors will be the favorites to sign Caboclo, as he is currently practicing with the team.