The National Basketball Association (NBA) authorities announced the official 2024 NBA Summer League First Team in the early hours of Tuesday, July 23 (Philippine Standard Time).
The Memphis Grizzlies were the only NBA franchise to have two players in the first five, with Scotty Pippen Jr. and GG Jackson II earning their spots. Reed Sheppard of the Houston Rockets and Kel’el Ware of the Miami Heat were the only 2024 NBA draft first-round picks to find a place on the First Team. This selection highlights the exceptional talent and performance these players showcased during the league.
Pippen Jr. has emerged as the player with all the hype around him, and he lived up to the hype in the NBA Summer League, leading the Grizzlies to the championship game. The youngster averaged 20.0 points and 8.2 assists per game on 49.2/41.2/87.9 shooting splits in five appearances. His consistent and stellar performance made him a standout player in the league. In fact, he became only the sixth player in Summer League history to register a triple-double to help his team progress to the title game. His triple-double performance is a testament to his all-around game and ability to impact the court in multiple ways.
GG Jackson II, another Memphis Grizzlies player, also made a significant impact. His inclusion in the First Team alongside Pippen Jr. indicates the strength and potential of the Grizzlies' young talent. Jackson’s performance was crucial in the Grizzlies' run to the championship game, and his presence on the First Team highlights his contributions.
Kel’el Ware of the Miami Heat has displayed why he is highly rated in basketball games. Ware has averaged 17.4 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game in the NBA Summer League. His defensive prowess and ability to score efficiently made him a vital player for the Heat. Ware's performance in the Summer League indicates his readiness to make an impact in the upcoming NBA season.
Reed Sheppard of the Houston Rockets also secured a place in the First Team. As one of the 2024 NBA draft first-round picks, Sheppard’s performance in the Summer League has been nothing short of impressive. His ability to adapt and excel at a higher level of competition bodes well for his future in the NBA.
The Summer League Most Valuable Player (MVP) Jalen Wilson of the Brooklyn Nets could only make the Second Team despite his impressive performances on the court. Wilson’s exclusion from the First Team has been a topic of discussion among fans and analysts. Despite this, his MVP title underscores his exceptional contributions throughout the league.
Memphis Grizzlies faced Miami Heat for the championship title, where Pippen Jr. went up against Kel’el Ware, who showcased his impressive skills. The championship game was a nail-biting contest that went into overtime. Miami Heat overcame the Grizzlies 120-118 in overtime, highlighting the competitive nature of the Summer League.
Josh Christopher led from the front for the Heat with 24 points, while Ware contributed significantly with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 1 block. Christopher’s leadership and Ware’s consistent performance were key factors in the Heat’s victory. On the other side, Pippen Jr. enjoyed another outstanding outing with 29 points, 11 assists, and 5 rebounds, but it was not enough to take his team over the finish line. Pippen Jr.’s performance in the final game further solidified his status as a rising star in the NBA.
The selection of the First and Second Teams reflects the diverse talent and competitive spirit seen in the 2024 NBA Summer League. Here’s a closer look at the players who made the cut:
The #NBA2KSummerLeague First Team!
— NBA (@NBA) July 22, 2024
GG Jackson II
Jordan Miller
Scotty Pippen Jr.
Reed Sheppard
Kel’el Ware pic.twitter.com/nKyfOU5WFG
The 2024 NBA Summer League showcased some of the most promising talents set to enter the NBA. The performances of these young players have not only excited their respective teams but also fans looking forward to the upcoming NBA season. The Summer League serves as a platform for these players to prove their worth and make a case for their inclusion in the main roster of their teams.
As we look forward to the next season, the achievements and highlights from the Summer League will undoubtedly be remembered. The inclusion of players like Pippen Jr., Jackson II, and Ware in the First Team reflects their hard work and potential to become key players in the NBA. Their journey from the Summer League to potentially becoming stars in the NBA will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
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