Raptors star Scottie Barnes embodies a character that is built to win

"At 24 years old, Scottie Barnes is putting together the best season of his career. He is combining his playmaking, physicality, and relentless energy to impact every facet of the game. In the process, he is becoming exactly the player the Raptors hoped for when they selected him with the fourth pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. To casual NBA fans, Barnes' breakout may be surprising, especially after a relatively linear 2024-25 season. However, Barnes' work ethic and love for the game have become clear to Raptors fans and anyone familiar with his background could've foreseen this growth."

"Barnes committed to Florida State, where he first showcased just how much winning mattered to him. Despite his reputation as one of the best high school players and a future NBA star, he willingly accepted a bench role on this team. Head coach Leonard Hamilton believed Barnes could have the greatest impact by serving as the primary playmaker for the second unit early in games, then closing alongside the starters, so his defensive intensity could be maximized."

"After the season, Hamilton had high praise for his star freshman: "He is always watching film, talking to his teammates, and allowing himself to be coached by his coaches. He is a guy that is eager to learn, and who has that It Factor that you seldom find in youngsters." Leonard Hamilton"

Scottie Barnes, at 24, is enjoying the best season of his career by blending playmaking, physicality, and relentless energy to influence offense and defense. The Toronto Raptors selected him fourth overall in the 2021 NBA Draft and he is evolving into the versatile two-way player the team envisioned. Casual observers may have been surprised after a steady 2024–25, but his work ethic and love for the game have driven consistent improvement. Barnes dominated in high school as a consensus five-star recruit, embraced a bench role at Florida State, earned ACC Sixth Man of the Year, and drew praise from coach Leonard Hamilton for his eagerness to learn.

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