Eric J. Russell, special to wtop.com
WASHINGTON – Not much was known about Tomas Satoransky when the Wizards picked him 32nd overall in this year’s draft. Many only knew of his athleticism and the fact he proclaimed himself a better dunker than second-year Wizard Jan Vesely.
Although Satoransky is still under contract in Europe and will not play for the Wizards this season, he’s shown many things on and off the court during his time at minicamp and seems to be settled in with the way the Wizards work. Following the team’s final summer minicamp practice, Satoransky said he feels good playing with the other guys on the roster while working on adjustments to his own game.
“I need to play more without the ball. Also, on defense (I need to) work on defending bigger guys and defending faster, more athletic guys,” Satoransky says. “But with the system, every practice I get more comfortable.”
See footage of Satoransky in action before the draft below:
The 6-foot-7 guard has earned the praises of head coach Randy Wittman and teammates with his play so far. Wittman characterized Satoransky as an energetic guy, and added that Satoransky’s versatility is an important attribute.
“Versatility is huge. Being able to play multiple positions in the NBA is something coaches like and gives the player many more options,” Wittman says.
Wittman plans to let Satoransky play with the ball in his hands, as well as off the ball, during the summer league games.
Other Wizards like Chris Singleton have also taken note of Satoransky’s skill set. Singleton likes his aggressiveness.
“He’s always trying to get the team involved,” Singleton says. “When he gets over here, I think he’s going to be a key asset to the Wizards.”
A main aide in Satoransky’s adjustment has been fellow Czech Republic native Vesely. The two have spent some time working with each other during the minicamp, and Satoransky is excited for the opportunity to play with Vesely once the summer league begins.
“He can help me a lot so it’s a big advantage for me,” Satoransky says. “It’s good to have him because I know where he’s going to move so I can find him for the pass.”
The two also have a good relationship off the court. Much to the chagrin of Wittman and teammates, they often communicate with each other in Czech.
Wittman joked after Wednesday’s practice that he was requiring the two to speak in English.
“They don’t like that we speak Czech in the locker room so we try to avoid it,” Satoransky says, laughing.
Satoransky and the Wizards’ squad are set to take on Atlanta Friday at 4 p.m. in the Las Vegas NBA Summer League opener.
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