Top 5 most intriguing quotes from Dallas Mavericks Media Day

3. Olivier-Maxence Prosper quote

Olivier-Maxence Prosper is being praised by veterans and coaches alike for the energy that he has brought to training camp so far just like fellow first-round pick Dereck Lively II. Prosper and Lively II have grown together a lot since they first stepped foot in Dallas in June after being drafted together.

The two rookies have been holding each other extra accountable with on-court and strength workouts, and have bonded with each other in their free time. Confidence is one of the keys to on-court success, and the two rookies are trying to make sure that each other maintains their confidence amidst the inevitable perils that they will face throughout their rookie season.

Perhaps Lively II is blowing quite a lot of confidence in Prosper's direction, as the confirmed preseason starter had this to say when asked about guarding tough matchups this season, particularly Anthony Edwards.

"It’s gonna be a challenge but I’m up for it. I don’t care who’s in front of me, what your resume is. Are they gonna make tough shots on me? Yes, but it’s part of the game. Anthony Edwards is my first game but I’m gonna make life hard on him."

- Olivier-Maxence Prosper

Prosper has been all smiles since coming to Dallas and is nothing but a high-character guy, so let's not blow the fact that he is calling out Edwards out of proportion. Nonetheless, his desire and confidence to take on the toughest matchups defensively is extremely encouraging, and the young man is clearly exhibiting a lot of confidence in himself to be a player who can contribute right off the bat in Dallas.

Even if Edwards makes a fool of Prosper on Thursday in Abu Dhabi, it won't be because of Prosper's lack of effort. Prosper has shown throughout media day and training camp so far that he will find a way to contribute to winning basketball this upcoming season in Dallas, and is well ahead of the curve compared to most rookies, so it will be extremely exciting to see his progress continue to unfold.