Travis Trice might have gained weight in Cairns; but after his explosive 31-point game against the Breakers he's far from the biggest loser.
"I've gained five kilos since I've been here, and I wanted to do that," Trice said.
"I spoke to the coach before I came here and we agreed that's what I needed to do to take my career to the next level, get bigger and stronger."
Listed at 77kgs on the NBL's website Trice's small frame has been reinforced in the tropics and with his recent hip injury behind him the playmaker has begun to show his potential.
In the two games Trice has played in Cairns this season he's scored 59 points.
Coach Aaron Fearne says his buffed up point guard, who spent time in the NBA's D-league last season, is learning the nuances of the NBL's physical brand of basketball.
"The college game is different to the D-league, which is different to the international game, so it's experience," Fearne said.
"He's learning a lot from the older guys in this league."
Trice admits the extra weight has helped him adjust to the NBL's international game.
"It's more physical here. There is a lot of times you'll be running the lane and cop a stray elbow, not maliciously, it's just guys being physical," Trice said.
Consistency is the next demon Trice must slay if he is to help Cairns into the playoffs.
His 31 points against the Breakers came off the back of a quiet 10-point game against Melbourne - Fearne is backing Trice to find consistent form in the coming weeks.
"He has the ability to go make a play and that's what I brought him here to do," Fearne said.
Share
