Time: 2024-07-16
NBA Summer League action continued in Las Vegas with big names from the last two draft classes showcasing their skills . Rising sophomores Brandon Miller and Jaime Jaquez Jr. stood out , along with top-10 picks like Stephon Castle and Donovan Clingan , former UConn teammates who faced off in a highly - anticipated match.
Brandon Miller and Jaime Jaquez Jr. were already in Las Vegas this month for USA Basketball training camp . Despite being All - Rookie First Team selections last season , they decided to participate in the Summer League . After their impressive performances , it 's evident that both players may not need to continue playing in the League . Jaquez particularly shined with 29 points , 11 rebounds , and five assists for the Miami Heat.
Miller had a solid game with 23 points and eight rebounds for the Charlotte Hornets , but his seven turnovers were a concern . The Hornets ' new head coach , Charles Lee , emphasized the team 's work ethic , suggesting Miller might not play many more games in the League.
Stephon Castle and Donovan Clingan , former UConn teammates turned opponents in the Summer League , faced off on Saturday . Castle led the San Antonio Spurs to a narrow victory over Clingan 's Portland Trail Blazers . Despite taking a hard fall and seeming to injure his wrist , Castle finished the game with an impressive stat line of 22 points , five rebounds , and four assists.
Clingan struggled with his shooting but made an impact in the paint with 13 rebounds and five blocks . The matchup between these former teammates turned rivals provided an exciting storyline for fans.
The New York Knicks made multiple draft night acquisitions , including Pacome Dadiet , Tyler Kolek , Kevin McCullar Jr. , and Ariel Hukporti . Kolek particularly stood out among the group , showcasing his skills with points , rebounds , and assists across the board . His ability to run an offense and excel in pick - and - roll situations caught the attention of head coach Tom Thibodeau.
Despite not having the same level of potential as some other players , Kolek 's toughness and comfort on the court suggest he could earn valuable minutes as a back - up point guard for the Knicks in the upcoming season.