Zach Randolph Praises D.J. Burns, Told CBB Star to Lose Weight Ahead of NBA Draft

Andrew PetersJune 4, 2024

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Former NBA star Zach Randolph had high praise for NC State big man D.J. Burns, who rose to prominence during the Wolfpack’s Final Four run.

Randolph, who many have compared Burns to, complimented his touch around the rim and said he could be a solid NBA player if he continues to work hard.

“His touch is so soft, he can shoot the ball. I like the kid’s game, man,” Randolph said on Podcast P with Paul George. “The comparison to me, that’s cool. He’s good, he’s just got to keep working and don’t get discouraged and keep believing in yourself.”

After Randolph heard the comparisons to Burns, he got in contact with him to offer him some advice.

“I told him from a basketball standpoint to get in the best shape you can,” Randolph said. “Lose as much weight as you can, work on your shot. The game has changed, the NBA has changed. It’s a much different style, so just go out there and get your money and work hard and believe in yourself, man.”

Podcast P with Paul George @PodcastPShowWemby x DJ Burns? 👀

Zach Randolph is not only a fan of @beastboyburns game, but potentially his fit with the Spurs pic.twitter.com/qZGBOPuE3C

In May, Burns said that he had lost 45 pounds over six and a half weeks, so he must have listened to Randolph’s advice. Burns was listed at 6’9″, 275 pounds at the end of NC State’s season.

Now having gotten some words of wisdom from Randolph, Burns is hoping to hear his name called in the NBA draft later this month. The senior averaged 12.9 points and four rebounds per game this season and turned heads with his performance in the NCAA tournament when he had 24-point and 29-point performances.

Burns was a fan favorite in college basketball this season and is looking to win over fans again on an NBA court.