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Kenneth Faried to the haters: 'I'm gonna just keep proving people wrong'

David Banks-USA TODAY Sports / reuters

Many were surprised with Kenneth Faried's inclusion on Team USA. He's just an energy guy, after all.

This isn't the first time Faried has faced detractors. In his own words, it's the "same story, different chapter." He wasn't recruited to a big-name college and was forced to settle for Morehead State University. But Faried made his mark. Faried finished his four-year collegiate career having grabbed 1,673 rebounds, a total besting both Tim Duncan and Bill Russell.

It's the same story with Team USA. "Since we've been here I've, I guess, proven people wrong saying I wasn't a good fit," Faried told NBA.com's Lang Whitaker. “People saying ‘That kid’s not gonna make it on the team.’ ‘Oh, why did they bring Kenneth? Why is he even starting?'"

"I'm gonna have to keep proving people wrong."

Faried has entrenched himself as a member of Team USA's starting five, an impressive feat given the excess of talent on the squad. His tenacious rebounding and hustle has helped generate extra possessions and transition opportunities, which is why he's earned his due.

His performance through three exhibition games speaks for itself.

Opponent FGA FGM REB POINTS
Brazil 4 7 9 11
Dominican Republic 2 2 5 4
Puerto Rico 6 6 5 12
Average 4 5 6.3 9

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