Patrick Beverley says guarding Ricky Rubio helped him reach NBA

Patrick Beverley credited his defensive assignment on Ricky Rubio during the 2010 EuroLeague Final Four in Paris as a key factor in reaching the NBA. Playing for Olympiacos at the time, Beverley established his reputation as an elite defender during the matchup, which he says helped him sign in the NBA. Beverley had previously started his professional career in Ukraine after his college career ended abruptly.

To pursue his NBA dream, Beverley paid a reported $1.4 million buyout himself to leave Olympiacos, a decision he planned with his mother. The gamble led to a career of more than 700 NBA games built on defensive toughness. Beverley is currently continuing his professional basketball career in France with Boulazac.