Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Friday highly praised Yi Jianlian, the No. 6 overall pick in the June draft, saying the 7-foot power forward from China is making a good impression.

 

"I love what he's doing," the report quoted the words from Bucks coach Larry Krystkowiak, who has closely monitored Yi after he arrived Milwaukee half a month ago.

 

"I'm really encouraged for what the future holds for him. It's been remarkable how fast he's picked some things up, even today.

 

"Offense, some of the things we're doing, I never would have guessed it. Most rookies, regardless if you're from Australia, China, Poland, aren't quite as quick to pick things up as he's been.

 

"Once his mind gets free, and he's more and more comfortable, I think he's really going to blossom," added Krystkowiak.

 

Yi has started two of the Bucks' four exhibition games and has averaged 9.3 points and 7.4 rebounds in nearly 23 minutes per game. He has committed a team-high 14 turnovers and is shooting 37.8%.

 

The report said that it has been a whirlwind for Yi since his arrival October 3 at O'Hare Airport, with introductions to his new teammates, many hours of practice, a well-attended Asian community event at the Bradley Center and the important task of finding a place to live.

 

According to the newspaper, Krystkowiak said he did not want to set the bar too high for Yi, but rather to let him find his way throughout his rookie season.

 

"I'm not saying in a month he's going to be an all-star-caliber guy," Krystkowiak said. "But he's going to continue to get better because he works hard and he understands the game.

 

"It's the essence of a sixth pick for a franchise. It's exactly what you're looking for. He's a guy with a lot of skill, size and athletic ability, a younger kid that hasn't played in great, great competition.

 

"But it seems to me he's getting better each time he's in practice, because the competition is better," he said.

 

(Xinhua News Agency October 20, 2007)