The NBA Summer League has just wrapped up, and it's time to dive into the performances of some talented individuals with Nebraska roots. From former Cornhuskers to Bluejays and Mavericks, these players have been making their mark on the court. Let's explore their journeys and the intriguing stories that emerged from this year's summer league.
Local Talent, Global Stage
The NBA Summer League provides an exciting platform for young players to showcase their skills and potentially secure a spot in the league. For Nebraska's basketball community, this year's event offered a glimpse of familiar faces competing at the highest level. From Rienk Mast's impressive double-doubles to Brice Williams' shooting prowess, these athletes represented their state with pride.
Rising Stars and Surprising Performances
One of the standout performers was Rienk Mast, who nearly averaged a double-double in Vegas. His offensive rebounding prowess and improved 3-point shooting caught the attention of many. Mast's Exhibit 10 contract with the Pacers is an intriguing move, offering him a bonus and a potential path to the G League if needed. This type of contract is a unique strategy teams use to develop talent, and it will be fascinating to see how Mast's career unfolds.
Brice Williams, on the other hand, showcased his shooting skills in a featured role for the Pistons. Starting all five games, he dropped 20-point outings and even had a 24-point performance against Phoenix. Unfortunately, his final game ended prematurely due to an ejection, but his overall performance was impressive. Williams' Exhibit 10 contract with the Pistons last summer and subsequent time with the G League team showcases the competitive nature of these summer leagues.
Family Connections and Breakthrough Moments
Sam Hoiberg, the son of Husker head coach Fred Hoiberg, played a supporting role for the Phoenix Suns. While he didn't score, his biggest moment came in a defensive stop that secured a victory for the Suns. This family connection adds an interesting layer to his story, and it will be intriguing to see if he continues to develop and make an impact.
Transfer Success and Two-Way Contracts
Josh Dix, an Iowa transfer who finished his college career at Creighton, signed a two-way contract with the Thunder. His consistent 3-point shooting and overall performance in both Salt Lake City and Las Vegas Summer Leagues highlight the value of transfers in the NBA. Playing alongside another former Hawkeye, Bennett Stirtz, adds an interesting dynamic to the Thunder's backcourt.
Overseas Experience and Shooting Touch
Steven Ashworth, a second-year pro, signed with the Thunder after spending time in the G League and overseas. His shooting touch was on full display, with multiple games featuring four made triples. Ashworth's ability to adapt and perform at different levels of competition is impressive, and his start in the Thunder's final Vegas game, where he exploded for 22 points, showcases his potential.
Rookie Impact and Defensive Presence
Ryan Kalkbrenner, on a standard contract with the Hornets, led the class in dunks and blocks as an early second-round pick. While Summer League may not be his ideal setting, his defensive presence and overall performance were notable. Sitting out after three games to give more playing time to the lottery pick, Hannes Steinbach, is a strategic move by the Hornets, and Kalkbrenner's impact will be interesting to watch as he develops.
Injury Scare and G League Success
Trey Alexander, who signed a two-way deal with the Jazz, suffered an injury in Vegas that required him to be taken off the court on a stretcher. Fortunately, it was only a left rib contusion, and his G League success speaks volumes about his potential. Having played in 33 NBA games so far, Alexander's journey is one of perseverance and talent.
Former Bluejay's Big Win
Arthur Kaluma, who finished his college career at Texas, was a big winner of Summer League. His strong performance led to a two-way contract with the Lakers. Scoring in double figures in all seven games he played, Kaluma's shooting touch and overall performance were impressive. Starting only one game, he made the most of it, going off for 34 points. This former Bluejay's story is a testament to the impact of Summer League and the opportunities it presents.
JUCO to NBA
Marquel Sutton, a JUCO product who spent three seasons at Omaha, earned Summit League Player of the Year and led the Mavericks to their first NCAA Tournament appearance. Transferring to LSU for his extra season of eligibility, Sutton had a strong season with the Tigers and was given a chance by the Kings in the Summer League. His deep shooting, which wasn't a strength in college, improved, and he made the most of his playing time. Sutton's journey from JUCO to the NBA is an inspiring one, and his performance in Summer League showcases his growth.
Nebraskan Double-Digit Averager
John Tonje, the lone Nebraskan to average double figures, had a strong second NBA Summer League. The Omaha Central product hit double digits in four of his five outings, starting all five games in Vegas for the Celtics. His 3-point shooting and overall performance were impressive, and his journey from being drafted by the Jazz to signing a two-way contract with the Celtics is an intriguing one. Tonje's case for another two-way contract is strong, and his story adds depth to the Nebraskan basketball narrative.
Global Experiences and Summer League Impact
Frankie Fidler, after spending his rookie season in Estonia, returned to NBA Summer League with a more substantial role. Starting all five games for the Blazers, Fidler recorded two double-digit scoring games. His ability to adapt and perform on a global stage is impressive, and his Summer League performance will likely open doors for future opportunities.
Two-Way Deals and Assist Leaders
Chucky Hepburn, a second-year two-way floor general, averaged over six assists in his two games in Vegas. Re-signing with the Raptors on a two-way deal, Hepburn's journey showcases the value of these contracts and the opportunities they present. His assist numbers are impressive, and it will be interesting to see how he develops further.
Familiar Faces and Exhibit 10 Contracts
Saint Thomas, playing with Philadelphia at Summer League for the second straight year, started three of his four games. His best game was an eight-point, seven-rebound outing against Indiana. Signing an Exhibit 10 contract with the 76ers last season, Thomas' journey is a familiar one for many Nebraskans, as he spent his rookie year with Philadelphia's G League affiliate.
Hunter Sallis, a Millard North alumnus, played in five games and started two, scoring in double figures in both. His overall performance, including 15 points, six rebounds, six assists, and two blocks against Milwaukee, showcases his potential. Signing a two-way deal with the 76ers as a rookie, Sallis' journey is one of ups and downs, and his Summer League performance may open doors for future opportunities.
William Kyle III, a Bellevue West grad, signed an Exhibit 10 deal with the Lakers after going undrafted. Starting the Lakers' first game in the California Classic, Kyle's overall performance, including his defensive presence and shooting touch, was notable. His journey, like many others, is a testament to the competitive nature of the NBA and the opportunities that arise from Summer League.
Omaha Central Alumnus and Shooting Struggles
Latrell Wrightsell Jr., an Omaha Central alumnus, signed an Exhibit 10 deal with the Hornets after going undrafted. Appearing in all five games off the bench, Wrightsell struggled to knock down shots. His journey, like many others, is a reminder of the challenges and opportunities that come with the NBA and Summer League. It will be interesting to see how he adapts and develops further.
The NBA Summer League offers a unique platform for players to showcase their skills and make an impact. For Nebraska's basketball community, this year's event was a showcase of talent, perseverance, and potential. From rising stars to familiar faces, these athletes have left their mark, and their journeys will continue to inspire and captivate basketball fans across the state.
