Cole Aldrich Introduced to Oklahoma City

Originally Published: Jul 12, 2010 9:8 AM CDT

Dave Carty
Oklahoma Sports Staff Writer

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Oklahoma City Thunder officially introduced rookie Cole Aldrich as a member of the team in a press conference Monday.

Aldrich, a 6-foot-11 center out of the University of Kansas, was acquired by the Thunder along with veteran Morris Peterson in exchange for rookies Craig Brackens and Quincy Poindexter on the night of the NBA Draft.

He first spoke with team officials on Thursday, after the trade was made official. He was put through an early morning workout and got to speak with Thunder coaches. His first impression of the team was a strong one.

"This team is really a tight-knit group," said Aldrich. "You don’t always see that in the NBA."

Aldrich's parents also attended the press conference, making the trip from Minnesota. In his short time in Oklahoma City, he's as encouraged by the city as he is by the team.

"[I’m] just loving the area," he said.

Head coach Scott Brooks said the big man's skill set will fit in perfectly with what the Thunder will try to do.

"We’re excited to have him," said Brooks. "We like what he’s about. He’s about toughness. He’s about defensive mentality. He’s about doing the right thing every time down the court."

Aldrich provides the Thunder with some size and a bruising nature, something he's been known for as long as he can remember.

"I was, I wouldn't say a bully on the court, but I was bigger than everybody, so I just loved to block shots." he said. "[If] somebody comes in the lane, I don't want them to score. I take real pride in blocking a shot or altering a shot or even having them pass it off.

"The paint is my home. I don't want anybody coming in my home."