Not true. Dude is 20. He can't even go out with his team mates for a drink. That's got to be some what alienating. Like the MO stated, we don't know what goes on behind closed doors, but damn, it wouldn't be too hard for DWill to put his arm around the kid in public to make him feel good.
He is a baller imo. It is up to his leaders how to maximize his potential.
How old are you? What does being old enough to buy a drink have to do with anything? When you were 20 did you want your boss, or co-workers to pay for an ad in the paper stating how cool you were? Would it really help? I say no. You encourage and support people on an individual basis, not through the media. Confidence comes through working through the tough times to excel at something when its hard. Mediocrity is the result when you praise someone when they dont deserve it. If praise is hard earned, it will mean something when it happens. If it is given out every time you flush the toilet, it means nothing and is seen as fake. It has to be sincere, or it is worthless. Sorry, but he hasn't earned the praise yet.... not saying he can't or won't soon.