Bucks' guard continues to improve

Through tireless work, Michael Redd has separated himself from many of his peers in clutch situations.

Originally Published: March 9, 2005

By Brian James | ESPN Insider

I can still remember walking into the Bradley Center in Milwaukee during the 2000-01 season, 1-2 hours before tip-off, and there would be Michael Redd, with sweat dripping down off his frame, working out diligently with one of George Karl's assistants. Redd worked on quickening his release, going to his right, increasing his range, dribbling each way and just flat-out knocking down shots with the coaches as the passers.

Redd appeared in only six games during that season, but Terry Stotts, Mike Thibault, Don Newman, Ron Adams and Tim Grgurich (Milwaukee's assistants at the time) all told me they had never had a player work so hard to get better. Redd's games were his individual workout sessions and practices on non-game days.

Most young players will do the extra work necessary that is required to stay in the NBA and get better. Otherwise, they don't last long. But in many cases, assistants have to drag the player onto the court, especially after the first three months. Redd always wanted to do more.

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