Now that NBA Summer League is over, basketball fans are caught up with the trading season which has seen some major shifts. However, the summer league did give us some important insights into the performances of players and the teams.
It is also a chance for general managers to keep an eye out for rising talents and strategize their game plans. Here are our takeaways from the summer league 2024.
5 Takeaways From NBA Summer League
1. Cam Whitmore Was A Steal Deal
There’s no doubt about the fact that Whitmore was a steal deal for Houston Rockets. A player who deserved to be among the top-five picks was ultimately the 20th overall pick on the draft night. However, Whitmore spared no time in showcasing his talents as soon as he jumped onto the court. He played six games and averaged 19.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.5 steals. He was also awarded the MVP honour in the Summer League 2023.
The NBA 2K24 Summer League Most Valuable Player:@HoustonRockets forward Cam Whitmore 🏆
Whitmore and the Rockets conclude their Summer League run tonight when they take on the Cleveland Cavaliers in the championship game at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT on ESPN. pic.twitter.com/wxLUbBmh1f
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) July 17, 2023
2. Boston Celtics Lucked Out With Jordan Walsh
Unlike Whitmore, Jordan Walsh was picked in the second round. Boston Celtics got a great player in Walsh who is going to show his potential in every game he plays. The hyper-defensive wing player is going to go far with his on-court skills. The 19-year-old player did not get a chance to showcase his skills in the Arkansas game. If given the right opportunity, Boston will be able to bring out a winner in Walsh.
3. Emoni Bates Has Still Got It
Emoni Bates has seen it all in a short span of time. Until a few years ago, he was touted to be the next big thing but then his rising fam came to a halt. However, this NBA Summer League gave Bates the chance to prove himself again. Bates was selected by Cleveland Cavaliers who ended up winning the NBA Summer League defeating Houston Rockets. Bates averaged close to 18 points on 40% shooting from deep.
4. Overtime Elite Has Got Some Great NBA Talents
Amen Thompson and Ausar Thompson are the latest talents to emerge from the Overtime Elite League. The Overtime Elite is a professional basketball league for 16 to 20 years old. There were certain apprehensions about the twins, Amen and Ausar’s NBA signings. However, the twins proved their worth right away. Amen played a single game in the NBA summer league due to an injury, however, he was exceptional in the one match he played. On the other hand, Ausar continued to showcase his talents throughout the league season.
5. Victor Wembanyama Is Just Getting Started
Victor Wembanyama was one of the players most people were looking out for. The 19-year-old was selected first overall by the Spurs in NBA 2023 draft. The 7-foot-4 player is considered one of the greatest prospects of his generation. While Wembanyama struggled during his first game in the NBA summer league, he more than made up for it in his next game. It remains to be seen what more Wembanyama has to offer once he starts playing regularly.
