"He wasn’t going to pay for me to get to school" - Former NBA champion reflects on his doubters, reveals his father called him a "sorry-a** basketball player"

Former Golden State Warriors guard Gary Payton II has developed quite a reputation in the league. The 29-year-old has had to overcome plenty of obstacles on his way to the top.

Payton burst onto the scene last season and played an important role in Golden State's run to the title. He signed a three-year deal with the Portland Trail Blazers this offseason.

On a recent episode of the "Truth and Basketball" podcast, Payton spoke about his fiercest critic, his father, and his journey to the top of the sport.

"He told me I was a sorry-a** basketball player. And he told me to get a job or get a scholarship because he wasn’t going to pay for me to get to school.”

Payton's father felt that the guard wasn't taking basketball seriously in high school and decided to light a fire under him.

After playing four years of college basketball and working on his game exhaustively, Payton went undrafted in the 2016 NBA draft.

This did little to put a damper on his dreams. After stints with the Milwaukee Bucks, LA Lakers and Washington Wizards, Payton earned a contract with the Golden State Warriors, where he flourished.

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Gary Payton II could be an impact player for the Portland Trail Blazers next season

Gary Payton II dives to the floor for the ball

By signing Gary Payton II to a three-year, $28 million contract, the Portland Trail Blazers have added one of the best defenders in the league to their roster.

Payton has the ability to defend the best guards in the league and will add a lot of value to Portland. Although he doesn't offer a lot offensively, his hustle and energy make him a solid role player.

The Trail Blazers have made some moves in the offseason and could be a team to watch next season. With Payton adding valuable championship experience, Portland will look to make some noise in the West.

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