Brooklyn Nets forward Noah Clowney opened up about his early experiences in the NBA, emphasizing the steep adjustment from college to the professional level.
“You don’t realize how good people are until you’re here…how strong people are, how fast, how people can think the game, make you do what they want to do based on how they play,” Clowney said on the Nets Pod, via HoopsHype.
The 2023 first-round pick has shown promise in his first two seasons, averaging 8.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.0 assists over 86 career games while shooting 39.5% from the field. His defensive versatility and ability to stretch the floor have become key components of his role with the Nets.
In the current 2025-26 season, Clowney is averaging 12.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.6 assists over 17 games, making him one of Brooklyn’s emerging contributors. He has also connected on 33% of his three-point attempts, adding a valuable perimeter threat for the team struggling to find consistent scoring options.
Clowney’s growth is highlighted by his ability to handle the pace and physicality of the NBA, a challenge he admitted was surprising compared to his expectations as a first-round pick. Despite entering the league with high personal expectations, he has had to adapt to facing seasoned veterans capable of dictating the flow of games.
The Nets are currently navigating a 3-14 start in the 2025-26 season, with Clowney among the younger players tasked with helping the team improve. His averages of 3.5 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game reflect a willingness to contribute across multiple facets of the floor, both offensively and defensively.
