A perfect fit. That’s what Grant Riller thinks about joining the Philadelphia 76ers this upcoming season. Earlier today, the Sixers officially signed Grant to a two-way deal, replacing former 76er Rayjon Tucker. 

Adding Grant was a move praised by many as he’s a perfect match for this team, joining several other hardworking young guys on this team. I had a chance to sit down with Grant and discuss his decision to join the 76ers and how he is planning to get ready for the upcoming season.

The decision to sign with the Sixers was not a difficult one for Grant Riller. Although he has yet to talk to anyone on the team, he didn’t pick favorites when asked if he was excited to learn from any specific player in Philly.

“Really everybody, for real. I think it’s just a great experience and a great opportunity. Obviously, this team has MVP caliber players. So it will be nice to learn from Joel and all the other all-stars and good players on the squad.”

Riller knew from the team’s roster construction and playstyle this was exactly where he wanted to be. Philly’s fast-paced attack-the-basket offense is just the style of offense that their new addition likes to play. 

“I think I fit in just because that’s kind of what I like to do. I’ve always been a guard that likes to play fast and get into the lane and make plays for myself and others, so I think I fit that playstyle well. I just thought it was a good opportunity, and for fit, as you said, their playstyle kind of compliments what I do. Obviously, it’s a great organization. And it just felt like the right thing to do. So I was just happy to be a part of it, and I’m ready to get started.”

The incredibly passionate fanbase in the City of Brotherly Love is well known by Riller, who has witnessed it first hand during his college days. Even though he has been on the opposite side for a few years, it seems like they played a factor in his decision to sign with the 76ers.

“I played in Philly a little bit in college. Drexel University was in our conference, so I came up here pretty much every year to play. But I know the history as far as 76ers go and the history of the city and how passionate they are. I just think it’s dope to have a city that supports you so much and wants to see you win. That’s kind of what a player looks for in a city, so I’m excited to go out there and give them my all for sure.”

Over the last few seasons, Riller has dealt with some nagging injuries but nothing that serious over his NBA career. And with that, it has been an interesting combination for Grant Riller between recovering for next season alongside bettering himself for the Sixers. There doesn’t seem to be a singular point of emphasis in his workouts but just improving his game across the board.

“Just everything I’ve been working on. Staying consistent with my jump shot, making sure I got a lot of reps here. Taking care of my body, dealing with some ticky-tack injuries before, so just making sure that all that’s ready to go. I’m just trying to see where I can fit with the Sixers. Honestly, I’ve kind of just working on all aspects of my game and just trying to be more of a complete player.”

Grant Riller hasn’t been on his own getting ready for the 2021 NBA season. Last summer, he started working with trainer Henry Woo who has been helping out several other NBA players, including Mo Bamba and Khem Birch.

“Yeah, well, I work with a specific trainer named Henry Woo. Yeah, we’ve been working together ever since last summer. He does a good job of breaking down my film, breaking down my spot, teaching me how to get better with things I really need to work on. And things I need to work on to make sure I have a chance to play in whatever system I’m in. So I know coming up, we’ll definitely do a lot of film on not only the Sixers but my game as well to see how I can fit in and contribute, but I’m looking forward to that.”

Listening to the way Grant talks about the fanbase and his offseason regimen, it’s clear he’s dedicated to making a name for himself in Philadelphia. He wants fans to know that they’re going to be getting 110% from him every single possession.

“Somebody that is coming in as a high-energy guy. Someone that’s super excited and gives the city all he has just make everybody proud. I just want to come in and do my job at a high level and kind of get my feet wet at an NBA level and show that I belong.”

For Grant Riller and the Sixers, the start of NBA training camp is just around the corner, kicking off in less than a month on September 28th. I wanted to thank Grant again for talking with the site and wish him the best of luck this upcoming season.

Mandatory Credit: AP Photo/Jacob Kupferman