“If you stay ready, you ain’t gotta get ready.”
That’s been Victor Oladipo’s mantra since undergoing two major surgeries to repair a right torn quadricep. 11 months ago, Oladipo couldn’t walk, let alone bend his leg. But in Miami’s Game 5 win over the Atlanta Hawks last Tuesday, Oladipo was more than ready; he was itching to remind the world of the type of player that he is.
After pouring in a team-high 23 points, three dimes, and three steals, Oladipo reveled in his performance with the Miami crowd as his resurgence as a critical piece in Miami’s lineup can’t be denied.
I’m just trying to ball and live. How can I lose when we the who’s who’s?💪🏿 pic.twitter.com/XlaJD69cBp
— Victor Oladipo (@VicOladipo) April 27, 2022
On Monday, Oladipo sat down with Stadium’s Shams Charania to chop it up about his road to recovery, his return to the court, and how he views his game today compared to his All-Star years.
“I would be a fool not to feel like I’m still there,” Oladipo said about being an All-Star talent. “That’s my goal is to show everyone that I’m still elite.
Heat’s Victor Oladipo sits down with @Stadium: “From why me, to giving up, what do I do next, to should I just stop. Go through every single emotion…then look yourself in the mirror and say: Man, keep going.” On revival, goal to regain All-Star status, new album, more. pic.twitter.com/TeMYcqLRVb
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) May 2, 2022
While the unknown still lingers as to how often Oladipo will be inserted into lineups and the length of time he sees on the hardwood, in just two playoff appearances so far, Oladipo is focused on “controlling the controllable” while averaging 17.2 points, 4.5 boards and 1.5 steals per game.
“I know it’s going to be a process. I know it’s not always going to be easy, but I’m willing to put in the work. I don’t shy away from it, so I’m looking forward to seeing what the future brings,” Oladipo said.
