Vegas, Day 3. Cotton is crucial

Cotton: 21 pts. in 16 mins.

The Atlanta Hawks improved to 2-0 with an 88-80 win over the Washington Wizards in the third day of play at the Las Vegas NBA Summer League. Crucial to the Hawks success was Bryce Cotton who came off the bench to score 21 points (7-11 FG, 3-4 3pt., 4-5 FT), and grab three rebounds in just 16 minutes. Cotton was the most efficient player on a winning team Sunday. 

Joining Cotton on our daily Hoop Obsession / BasslineSpin.com All-NBA Summer League Team for Sunday July 10, 2016...

Michael Eric - Wizards. 20 points (8-10 FG, 4-6 FT), 8 rebounds, 2 steals in 24 minutes. 

Christiano Felicio - Bulls. 17 points (8-8 FG, 1-1 FT), 10 rebounds, 4 assists in 27 minutes. ...Chicago improved to 2-0 with an 83-70 victory over the Philadelphia 76'ers. 

Norman Powell - Raptors. 29 points (7-15 FG, 4-8 3-pt, 11-12 FT), 8 rebounds, 3 assists in 29 minutes. ...Toronto moved to 2-0 by beating the Minnesota Timberwolves 82-80. 

Cheick Diallo - Pelicans. 12 points (5-7 FG, 2-2 FT), 11 rebounds, 4 blocked shots in 28 minutes. ...New Orleans fell to the Utah Jazz 79-72. 

Alan Williams - Suns. 15 points (6-10 FG, 3-3 FT), 12 rebounds, 2 steals in 30 minutes. ...Phoenix beat the Boston Celtics 87-74. 

Lamar Patterson - Hawks. 16 points (5-9 FG, 4-7 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 4 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals in 24 minutes. 

Spencer Dinwiddie - Bulls. 14 points (5-10 FG, 4-4 FT), 4 rebounds, 4 assists in 21 minutes. 

Jabril Trawick - D League Select. 15 points (3-4 FG, 1-1 3-pt., 8-10 FT), 5 rebounds, 2 steals, 2 blocked shots in 28 minutes. ...The D-League Select team was a surprise winner over the Milwaukee Bucks 91-86. 

Thon Maker - Bucks. 17 points (7-15 FG, 1-4 3-pt., 2-4 FT), 17 rebounds, 2 blocked shots in 33 minutes. 

Kyle Anderson - Spurs. 23 points (9-17 FG, 3-6 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 4 rebounds in 29 minutes. ...The Spurs upped their record to 2-0 by pounding the Portland Trailblazers 85-69. 

Abdel Nader - Celtics. 13 points (6-13 FG, 1-4 3-pt., 0-1 FT), 6 rebounds in 22 minutes. 

NOTES: The Houston Rockets beat the Sacramento Kings 85-73. The Kings brought in David Stockton to run the point after their epic failure of Friday. Sacramento looked much better Sunday with Stockton having a solid game as well as rookie wing Malachi Richardson. ...There were four players that struggled mightily, posting efficiency ratings of "zero" or "minus." They were: Brandon Fields (again), Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot, Ryan Arcidiacono, and Suns' lottery pick, Dragan Bender. ...On the other side of the coin, Joshua Smith played VERY well but just missed the cut to be on our "best-of" team for the day. 

Day 2, Vegas. Stokes remains efficient

Stokes just balls.

Jarnell Stokes was the most efficient player on a wining team during play Saturday at the 2016 Las Vegas NBA Summer League. The bruising power forward scored ten points (4-7 FG, 2-2 FT) and grabbed nine rebounds in 17 minutes. His summer San Antonio Spurs team narrowly defeated the Golden State Warriors 63-61.  

Joining Stokes on the daily Hoop Obsession / BasslineSpin All-NBA Summer League Team...

Jakarr Sampson - Nuggets. 16 points (4-7 FG, 1-3 3-pt., 7-9 FT), 3 rebounds, in 16 minutes. ...Denver de-clawed the Grizzlies 106-62.

Petr Cornelie - Nuggets. 19 points (7-11 FG, 1-2 3-pt., 4-6 FT), 7 rebounds in 21 minutes. 

Jack Cooley - Bulls. 11 points (4-7 FG, 3-4 FT), 8 rebounds in 16 minutes. ...Chicago beat Boston 71-62.

Jonathan Gibson - Mavs. 30 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals in 30 minutes. ...Dallas cooled the Heat 83-64.

Jimmer Fredette - Nuggets. 26 points (9-18 FG, 4-8 3-pt., 4-4 FT), 3 assists, 2 steals, zero turnovers in 27 minutes. 

Tyler Ulis - Suns. 11 points (3-4 FG. 5-6 FT), 5 rebounds, 7 assists, 3 steals in 27 minutes. The Suns burned the Blazers 86-73.

Bobby Portis - Bulls. 17 points (7-12 FG, 1-3 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 13 rebounds in 30 minutes. 

Axel Toupane - Nuggets. 10 points (5-8 FG, 0-2 3-pt.), 8 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals in 26 minutes. 

Dionte Christmas - Jazz. 13 points (3-6 FG, 1-3 3-pt., 6-7 FT) in 17 minutes. ...Utah lost to Washington 88-73. 

Guerschon Yabusele - Celtics. 10 points (3-7 FG, 2-6 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 7 rebounds, 2 steals in 22 minutes. 

Devin Booker - Suns. 28 points (11-21 FG, 3-5 3-pt., 3-7 FT), 8 rebounds, 6 assists in 36 minutes. 

NOTES - ...Never before can I remember so many players having terrible days during Summer League play. No less than a dozen guys had per-minute efficiency ratings at or below "zero" (that is extra terrible.) The 12 that stunk it up included three lottery picks from the 2016 NBA Draft, offering further proof of how far away some of these prospects can be from actually helping a team at this level. In alphabetical order, the players with horrid efficiency Saturday: Jaylen Brown, Michael Carrera, Marquese Chriss, Randy Culpepper, Bryn Forbes, Quincy Ford, Brandon Ingram, Kenny Gabriel, Malcolm Miller, Jonathan Simmons, Rasheed Sulaimon, and James Young. ...For one night, the Showtime Lakers were back. In an instant classic game, the Los Angeles Lakers and Philadelphia 76'ers battled through a poor first half to completely enthrall fans in the thrid and fourth quarter. The Lakers' Larry Nance Jr. had several highlight dunks, and teammate D'Angelo Russell hit two clutch shots, including a buzzer-beating jumper that gave the Lakers the 70-69 W. For the Sixers, Ben Simmons, the 2016 NBA Draft number-one pick dazzled with his ability to pull of passes with a high degree of difficulty. ...Players who played very well but just missed the cut for our daily 'best of' list included: Daniel Ochefu, Alan Williams, and Michael Eric. 

Friday's 11-game All-Summer League Team

Labeyrie plays wild and free

Louis Labeyrie was the most efficient player on a winning team during play Friday in the 2016 NBA Summer League. Eleven games were contested with action in Orlando coming to a close just as the Las Vegas games began. Labeyrie had 14 points, 12 rebounds, and two steals in just 16 minutes of playing time for the New York Knicks summer team. They sunk the Clippers 106-77. 

With eleven games in one day, making our daily All-Summer League team was tougher than normal. As always, we acknowledge efficient play, first and foremost. It is VITAL to understand that most humans will only see highlights on ESPN or NBA-TV. The producers at those media outlets are always quick to show you the top lottery picks, and how they fared. Kris Dunn, for instance, was excellent Friday. But other lesser known players balled too. Dunn dazzled with his ball-handling ability, making an instant-classic Vine where he shook Jakarr Sampson out of his shoes. But what you may not have seen is that Dunn missed the shot. 



So - style points are just that. And this is not a shot at Dunn at all. I love his game. He was crazy good Friday night against Emmanuel Mudiay. But as good as Dunn was he had the fourth most efficient game among all the point guards that played Friday. Ron Baker was slightly more efficient, and he will not be on our daily All-Summer League Team either. 

Joining Labeyrie on the Hoop Obsession / BasslineSpin.com All-NBA Summer League Team for Friday, July 8, 2016...

Shayne Whittington - Pacers. 12 points (5-7 FG, 1-1 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 5 rebounds, 3 blocked shots in 16 minutes. ...The Pacers beat the Orlando Blue team 85-79. 

Devin Booker (Clemson) - Knicks. 13 points (4-9 FG, 5-5 FT), 8 rebounds, 3 steals in 21 minutes. 

D'Angelo Russell - Lakers. 20 points (7-12 FG, 1-1 3-pt., 5-5 FT), 11 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 steals in 29 minutes. ...The Lakers easily handled the Pelicans 85-65. 

Okaro White - Orlando Blue. 11 points (5-8 FG, 0-1 3-pt., 1-2 FT), 7 rebounds, 4 steals, 2 blocked shots in 22 minutes. 

Bryce Cotton - Hawks. 14 points (5-11 FG, 4-6 3-pt), 7 rebounds in 17 minutes.  ...The Hawks downed the Rockets 83-78. 

Diamon Simpson - Cavs. 7 points (3-5 FG, 1-4 FT), 6 rebounds, 4 steals, 6 blocked shots in 19 minutes. ...The Cavs lost to the Bucks, 81-75. 

Ramon Galloway - Hornets. 25 points (9-13 FG, 2-4 3-pt., 5-5 FT), 5 rebounds, 4 assists in 27 minutes. ...The Hornets lost to Dallas 97-92. 

Andrew Harrison - Grizzlies. 23 points (5-11 FG, 1-5 3-pt., 12-12 FT), 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals in 25 minutes. ...Memphis erased the D-League Select team 99-79. 

Fred VanVleet - Raptors. 6 points (2-5 FG, 2-3 3-pt.), 6 rebounds, 3 assists (zero turnovers) in 17 minutes. ...The Raptors embarrassed the Kings 88-47. 

Brandon Davies - Pistons. 7 points (3-4 FG, 1-2 3-pt.), 5 rebounds in 17 minutes. 

Axel Toupane - Nuggets. 8 points (2-3 FG, 1-1 3-pt., 3-4 FT), 3 rebounds in 16 minutes. 

Notes: Denver Nuggets guard Gary Harris looked noticeably more lean. Hard work and a better diet shows me that Harris is serious about his craft; not that we ever doubted the former Michigan State star. Nevertheless it is good to reaffirm that Harris is a real professional. ...The Kings game was ugly. Really ugly. Their summer team is woefully ill-equipped to battle compared to the way most franchises have built their rosters for Las Vegas. The Kings rolled out seven raw rookies and were promptly blasted by Toronto. Sacramento's 47 points were the lowest total for a Las Vegas NBA Summer League game since 2008. The Chinese National team matched the futility of the Kings eight summers ago. ...Four players had really bad days. Two of them were part of the Kings group. These four all had per-minute efficiency ratings at or below "zero": David Michineau (Clippers), Brandon Fields (D-League Select), Retin Obasohan (Kings), and Ricky Ledo (Kings). ...Usually if a player posts a BasslineSpin.com game efficiency rating of .750 or higher it is good enough to make the daily All-NBA Summer League team. However, with so many games on the slate, many who were over .750 were left out. The following guys fit the description of "over .750 but not on the daily best-of team:" Ron Baker, Jabril Trawick, Norman Powell, Victor Rudd, James Kelly, Branden Dawson, Jakob Poeltl, Arinze Onuaku, and Goodluck Okonoboh.

Thursday belonged to Richaun Holmes

Holmes balled Thursday

Richuan Holmes was the most efficient player on a winning team during play Thursday across two NBA Summer Leagues. With action taking place in both Orlando and in Salt Lake City, Holmes emerged as the star of the day with 17 points (6-9 FG, 5-6 FT), seven rebounds, and two blocked shots in just 21 minutes. His Philadelphia 76'ers summer squad be-bopped the Jazz 86-75. 

The rest of the Hoop Obsession / BasslineSpin.com All-NBA Summer league Team for Thursday, July 7th, 2016...

Kyle Anderson - Spurs. 23 points (9-17 FG, 5-6 FT), 10 rebounds, 7 assists, 3 steals in 30 minutes. ...The Spurs lost a close game to Celtics, 87-86. 

Stanley Johnson - Pistons. 20 points (7-13 FG, 2-6 3-pt., 4-4 FT), 9 rebounds, 3 steals in 30 minutes. ...The Pistons remained unbeaten (4-0) with a convincing 71-58 win over Miami. 

Tibor Pleiss - Jazz. 14 points (5-8 FG, 2-3 3pt., 2-2 FT), 6 rebounds in 22 minutes. 

Terry Rozier - Celtics. 23 points (8-15 FG, 1-3 3-pt., 6-7 FT), 7 rebounds, 6 assists in 31 minutes.  ...Rozier hit the game winning shot for the C's. 

Tyler Honeycutt - Mavericks. 9 points (4-10 FG, 1-2 3-pt.), 13 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals, 3 blocked shots in 33 minutes. ...The Mavs fell to the Orlando Blue team 96-94.

Okaro White - Orlando Blue. 9 points (3-7 FG, 0-1 3-pt., 3-3 FT), 10 rebounds in 18 minutes. 

Dejounte Murray - Spurs. 21 points (8-12 FG, 0-1 3-pt., 5-7 FT), 5 rebounds in 25 minutes. 

Nick Johnson - Orlando Blue. 19 points (6-10 FG, 3-5 3-pt., 4-5 FT), 5 rebounds, 9 assists in 36 minutes. 

Derrick Nix - Pistons. 9 points (3-5 FG, 3-4 FT), 4 rebounds, in 16 minutes. 

T.J. McConnell - Sixers. 11 points 5-7 FG, 1-1 3-pt.), 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals in 29 minutes. 

Notes: Four players really struggled Thursday, posting per-minute efficiency ratings at or below "zero". Those four: David Michineau, Julian Washburn, Michael Frazier, and Tyrone Wallace. 

Darius Adams has a day, Tobey making believers

Adams starred Wed. 

Darius Adams was the most efficient player on a winning team during play on July 6th at the NBA Summer League. Only three games were contested (all in Orlando) as the Utah Summer League took a day off. Adams came off the bench for Dallas to score 25 points (9-16 FG, 3-8 3-pt., 3-4 FT), dish six assists, and nab three steals in 25 minutes. The Mavericks beat the Charlotte Hornets 84-81. ...Adams is a 6'1", 27 year-old guard, that made the All-Spanish ACB League Team in 2015-16. 

Mike Tobey, an undrafted rookie from Virginia was equally as impressive in the loss for the Hornets. Tobey scored 16 points (8-13 FG), with 14 rebounds, three blocked shots, and two steals in 26 minutes. 

The rest of the Hoop Obsession All-Summer League Team from July 6, 2016...

Tomislav Zubzic - Oklahoma City. 13 points (5-7 FG, 3-5 3-pt.), 3 rebounds, 3 assists in 17 minutes. The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers 89-71. 

Ron Baker - New York. 22 points (8-15 FG, 4-9 3-pt., 2-3 FT), 9 rebounds, 5 assists, 5 steals in 33 minutes. The Knicks fell 95-90 to the Orlando White team. 

Arinze Onuaku - Orlando White. 16 points (7-10 FG, 2-6 FT), 13 rebounds, 2 blocked shots in 25 minutes.

Michael Frazier - Orlando White. 12 points (2-5 FG, 8-10 FT), 3 rebounds, 3 assists, in 16 minutes. 

Devin Booker - New York. 12 points (4-9 FG, 4-4 FT), 8 rebounds, in 23 minutes. 

Dakari Johnson - Oklahoma City. 11 points (5-8 FG, 1-5 FT), 9 rebounds in 23 minutes. 

Cameron Payne - Oklahoma City. 19 points (7-15 FG, 2-4 3-pt., 3-4 FT), 6 assists, 3 steals in 26 minutes. 

Treveon Graham - Orlando White. 19 points (7-12 FG, 2-5 3-pt., 3-5 FT), 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals in 31 minutes. 

Tyler Honeycutt - Dallas. 8 points (3-7 FG, 1-3 3-pt., 1-2 FT), 7 rebounds, 2 steals, 2 blocked shots in 30 minutes. 

Patricio Garino - Orlando White. 14 points (3-8 FG, 2-5 3-pt., 6-7 FT), 3 steals in 33 minutes. 

Jonathan Simmons goes nutso

Simmons. Jonathan, that is. 

Jonathan Simmons, a second year pro for the San Antonio Spurs, had one of the better performances Tuesday that we have seen in the history NBA Summer League play. Simmons scored 35 points and added seven rebounds, and five assists in the Spurs 95-91 victory over the summer version of the Philadelphia 76'ers. Simmons shot 13 of 18 from the floor and made one of his two three-point attempts. At the foul line, he connected on all but one of his nine attempts. 

The rest of the Hoop Obsession / BasslineSpin All-NBA Summer League team for July 5th, 2016...

Christian Wood - Philadelphia. 19 points (5-8 FG, 2-3 3-pt., 7-11 FT), 7 rebounds, in 20 minutes. Wood was brilliant in his first game as well. Tuesday he showed an ability to play both inside and outside. 

Chasson Randle - New York. 24 points (8-15 FG, 6-9 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 5 rebs., 5 assists, 6 steals in 34 minutes. ...Randle came off the Knicks bench and led them to their first win in three Summer League games. New York beat the Los Angeles Clippers 92-84 in overtime. 

Briante Weber - Miami. 9 points (3-6 FG, 1-2 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 10 rebounds, 6 assists, 6 steals in 30 mins. ...The Heat remained unbeaten (3-0) with a 84-68 win over the Orlando Blue team. 

Josh Richardson - Miami. 22 points (6-9 FG, 3-4 3-pt., 7-8 FT), 6 assists in 28 minutes. 

Kyle Anderson - San Antonio. 23 points (10-17 FG, 3-6 3-pt., 0-3 FT), 8 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals, 3 blocked shots in 30 mins. ...Anderson continues to astound with his ability to "process" plays faster than others. He plays in slow-motion but somehow beats opponents regularly. His length and ability to dig down, as well as block shots, and defensive rebound make him stand out. 

Bryn Forbes - San Antonio. 23 points (8-10 FG, 4-5 3-pt., 3-3 FT) in 28 minutes. If Forbes gets a clean look, it's going in. 

Glenn Robinson III - Indiana. 20 points (8-13 FG, 1-4 3-pt., 3-5 FT), 7 rebounds in 27 minutes. ...Robinson and the Pacers fell to 1-2 with a 80-76 loss to Detroit. 

Georges Niang - Indiana. 14 points (5-9 FG, 0-2 3-pt., 4-4 FT), 6 rebounds, 3 assists in 24 mins. 

Rakeem Christmas - Indiana. 10 points (5-10 FG), 7 rebounds, 3 blocked shots in 22 minutes. 

Tibor Pleiss - Utah. 7 points (2-3 FG, 1-1 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 4 rebounds in 16 mins. The Jazz lost to Boston 89-82. 

Diamond Stone - Clippers. 20 points (10-15 FG), 7 rebounds in 31 minutes. 

Notes: Four players that played at least 16 minutes had a per-minute efficiency rating at either zero or minus (that is a REALLY bad game): T.J. Price, DyShawn Pierre, Alex Caruso, and Alex Kirk. 

Anderson stars on Fourth of July

Slo-Mo wins again. 

San Antonio Spurs forward Kyle Anderson was the star of play in the NBA Summer League on the Fourth of July. His San Antonio Spurs summer team whipped the host Utah Jazz 90-69. Anderson, the 30th pick of the 2014 NBA Draft, had 25 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and four steals in 26 minutes. 

Each day we list the players that performed the best. Our Hoop Obsession / BasslineSpin All-Summer League team should be considered a badge of honor for these players battling to get an elite NBA job. Joining Kyle Anderson...

Vincent Poirier - Orlando Blue. 10 points (5-9 FG), 11 rebs. in 20 mins. ...Poirier is a 6'11", 235 lb. Center. He is 22 years-old. Poirier went undrafted in the 2016 NBA Draft. He played last season in France. Orlando's Blue team lost to Detroit 73-68

Brandon Paul - Charlotte. 17 pts (6-11 FG, 4-8 3-pt., 1-3 FT), 12 rebounds, 2 steals, 2 blocked shots in 28 mins. The Hornets beat Oklahoma City 78-74. 

Mike Tobey - Charlotte. 14 points (7-8 FG, 0-1 3-pt.), 6 rebounds, 3 blocked shots in 26 minutes.

Treveon Graham - Orlando White. 14 points (6-10 FG, 2-4 3-pt.), 4 rebounds, 3 assists in 19 mins. Orlando's White team beat Dallas 92-85. 

Tyler Honeycutt - Dallas. 13 points (5-8 FG, 0-1 3-pt., 3-4 FT), 7 rebounds in 23 minutes. 

Okaro White - Orlando Blue. 8 points (3-5 FG, 0-2 3-pt., 2-3 FT), 7 rebounds in 18 mins. 

Kwame Vaughn - Philadelphia. 7 points (2-3 FG, 1-2 3-pt., 2-4 FT), 4 rebounds, 3 assists in 17 mins. ...Vaughn is a 26 year-old point guard that went undrafted in 2013. He played for the USF Dons, and then transferred to Cal-State Fullerton. He has played overseas the last three seasons. Philadelphia lost to Boston 102-94. 

Kalib Tarczewski - Detroit. 9 points (2-4 FG, 5-6 FT), 6 rebounds in 21 minutes. 

Ben Simmons - Philadelphia. 10 points (2-9 FG, 6-6 FT), 8 rebounds, 5 assists in 24 minutes. 

Malcolm Miller - Boston. 14 points (6-8 FG, 1-3 3-pt., 1-2 FT), 4 rebounds in 24 minutes. 

Semaj Christon - Oklahoma City. 23 points (4-15 FG, 1-3 3-pt., 14-18 FT), 6 rebounds, 6 assists, 4 steals in 38 minutes.

McGary shines on day two in Orlando

Mitch McGary was the most efficient player on a winning team during second day action at the 2016 NBA Orlando Summer League. The powerful McGary scored 18 points (5-11 FG, 1-1 3-pt., 7-10 FT), grabbed nine rebounds and added four steals in the Thunder's 81-72 win over the summer version of the Los Angeles Clippers. McGary is a potential rotation BIG for the Thunder (if he can stay healthy). He has excellent hands, and despite his large frame he is very nimble. He beats slower big men running the floor, and his knack for being able to catch tough passes is a real skill. 

The Miami Heat rested Justise Winslow and Josh Richardson Sunday but that did not stop them from trouncing the the summer New York Knicks, 74-48. Rodney McGruder was strong for the Heat, scoring 15 points (6-9 FG, 2-5 3-pt., 1-1 FT) and adding three rebounds, three assists, and two steals in 24 minutes. 

Kevin Tumba (6'9", 227 lb., Center from The Democratic Republic of the Congo) pitched in for Miami with four points (2-2 FG), four blocked shots and seven boards in 20 minutes. 

Brice was Brice Sunday 

Brice Johnson, the Clippers 2016 first round draft pick (25th) from North Carolina, had an excellent performance. Johnson showed his shooting touch, even hitting a "long two". He never hit a three-point shot in four years in college. Johnson had 23 points (11-18 FG, 0-1 3-pt., 1-3 FT), six rebounds, and two blocked shots. 

Dakari Johnson, a second round pick of the Thunder (pick 48 in 2015), caused some problems for the opposing Clippers' BIGs. Johnson used his massive 7'0", 265 lb. body to carve out space in the deep paint. Johnson scored 15 points and had 12 rebounds. Johnson is a decidedly "under-the-rim" player. 

Kenny Gabriel, a 27 year-old, 6'8" 220 lb. forward, was among the best players for Miami Sunday. Gabriel scored 16 points (6-11 FG, 4-8 3-pt.), and added six rebounds in 26 minutes. 

Shayne Whittington played well for the Pacers. The 6'11", 250 lb. center had 12 points (2-6 FG, 8-12 FT) and seven rebounds in 22 reserve minutes. The Pacers fell however to the Charlotte Hornets 80-70. 

Gabe York was among the best guards that played Sunday. York, an undrafted rookie from Arizona, led the Hornets with 18 points (7-13 FG, 2-6 3-pt., 2-2 FT). 

Wayne Blackshear was a key reserve in the Charlotte win. The former Louisville star wing scored six points (2-6 FG, 1-2 3-pt., 1-2 FT), and nabbed eight rebounds in 16 minutes. 

Royce O'Neale showed his combination of skills for the Clippers. O'Neale, a 6'5" 215 lb. guard, scored 14 points (5-8 FG, 3-6 3-pt., 1-2 FT), while adding four rebounds, and three steals in 27 minutes. 

Glenn Robinson III joins McGary as the only two players to make our "best of" list on both of the first two days of the Orlando Summer League. The Pacers' forward scored 16 points (7-15 FG, 1-6 3-pt., 1-2 FT) with four rebounds, three assists, and two steals in 28 minutes. 

Joe Young was not great Sunday but he was TOUGH. Young played despite having taken a hard fall 24 hours earlier that we were pretty sure was going to keep him from playing. Young scored six points (2-6 FG, 0-2 3-pt., 2-2 FT), and added three boards and three assists. 

2016 NBA Summer League. Orlando, Day One.

Justise Winslow played well for Miami.

Each day of the NBA Summer League we will provide this list as a review of the standout players. This endeavor helps to cement in our mind the players that are getting it done consistently. 

We watched all five games from Saturday. The Miami Heat summer team is loaded with ball-hawking Briante Weber leading the defensive intensity. Flying on the wings, Miami has two rotation players from their very good 2015-16 NBA Playoffs squad. Both Justise Winslow and Josh Richardson played Saturday, making it difficult for the summer Clippers to make the first pass in their offense. The Heat beat the Clipps 91-71. 

Detroit Pistons reserve Center Jordan Bachynski was the most efficient player on a winning team during the opening day of action in the Orlando NBA Summer League. Bachynski, is a 7'2" BIG that is relatively mobile and seemingly always tenacious. He had eleven points (4-4 FG, 3-4 FT), nine rebounds, and a blocked shot in 17 turnover-free minutes. The Pistons throttled the Knicks 81-49. Bachynski is 26 years old. The Arizona State late-bloomer was undrafted in 2014. He showed up on our list of the three best Centers from the 2016 NBA D-League Showcase. 

Georges Niang impressed for the Indiana Pacers. Despite questions about his ability to defend in the NBA, Niang proved that at the Summer League level, he can hang. His crafty game was on full display. Niang scored 17 points, grabbed 12 boards, dished five assists, and had two steals in 25 minutes. It occurred as we watched him throw a perfect lob pass to Rakeem Christmas, that Niang did not exactly have above-the-rim finishers as teammates in college. Niang's vision combined with NBA athletic BIGs might make Niang even more efficient. The Pacers conserved fuel down the stretch and won easily 93-66 over the Orlando Magic Blue squad. 

The Clippers looked bad in their loss (but I have a strong feeling that was mostly about how good Miami's D was). A bright spot for L.A.C. was the play of Branden Dawson, a 2015 draft pick (56th overall). The Michigan State product was all over the court, providing 14 points, and seven rebounds in 16 minutes as a reserve. Let's hope Dawson gets some more burn next time out. 

The crop of 2016 undrafted rookie free agents was represented well by Stefan Jankovic. The former Hawaii star came off of the Heat bench to score 17 points (7-10 FG, 2-4 3-pt., 1-1 FT) in 20 minutes. Jankovic hit one particularly crazy reverse pivot fall-away on the baseline that brought ooohs and ahhs. 

Michael Frazier, the former Florida Gator shooting guard, had a nice day for the Orlando Magic White team in their 79-74 win over the Charlotte Hornets. Frazier scored 12 points (3-6 FG, 2-2 3-pt., 4-6 FT) and snatched five rebounds in 16 minutes.  

Andre Dawkins (Duke 2014) scored 16 points in 21 minutes (5-8 FG, 1-3 3-pt., 5-5 FT) for the Dallas Mavericks summer entry. They lost a squeaker to Oklahoma City 86-85 (Cameron Payne hit the game-winning jumper for OKC). Dawkins is now 24 years old. He spent last season in the D-League playing the two-spot for the Texas Legends. 

Although he was out of control at times, Marquis Teague showed that he can really "shake". He was confusing defenders with his quickness and power off the dribble. Teague had 13 points, four rebounds, two assists, and two steals in 17 minutes for the Mavs. 

Glenn Robinson III showcased his inside-outside game in the Pacers win. Robinson tallied 16 points (6-13 FG, 2-5 3-pt, 2-2 FT), eight boards, three assists and three steals in 31 minutes as a starter. 

Arinze Onuaku held down the painted area in the Orlando White victory. The massive Onuaku scored 16 points (6-9 FG, 4-7 FT) to go with eight rebounds in 25 minutes. 

Payne earned the interview on NBA-TV.

Cameron Payne was the most efficient point guard for day one. Not only did he make the game winning shot for the Thunder, the second year pro also scored 16 points, grabbed seven rebounds, dished four assists (with just one turnover), and had two steals in 31 minutes. 

Phil Pressey was a close runner-up in the battle for most efficient point guard. Pressey, at 5'11" was a rebounding machine Saturday, collecting ten boards. He also scored eight points in his 21 minutes off the bench for the Pistons. 

There were five players that REALLY struggled to put it mildly. The opening day of 2016 NBA Summer League play was rough for Brandon Fields, Mickey McConnell, J.P. Tokoto, Ron Baker, and David Michineau. All five of those players posted per-minute efficiency ratings of either, zero or minus. In Baker's defense, his individual on-ball D was outstanding. He moves his feet very well. He just didn't make shots Saturday. 

Free Agency Bonanza

Bazemore offers two-way value

The NBA free agency bonanza will begin later tonight. Your favorite team is probably, at minimum, going to have discussions with potential players and their representatives. We have seen reports of teams liking some players that we deem sketchy. A mistake in free agency can be costly to a team's future. It should be all about getting VALUE, and being realistic about your team's place in the NBA. 

So, as a public service, we are going to list the 15 players (among point guards and wings) that we would be targeting. As always, our lists are based on a combination of knowing the landscape of the NBA, being "data-informed", and perhaps most importantly, "feel". 

Kevin Durant - We pride ourselves on independent thought and not necessarily following the herd. However, in the case, the mass media has it right. "KD" is the main man. Durant is the definition of a "max player" in the NBA. 

Nicolas Batum - A top flight NBA small forward is a commodity. Batum is a top-ten offensive efficiency guy at his position. On D, he's in the top 20 among small forwards. 

Kent Bazemore - He is a terrific wing defender and he has improved enough on offense that he should be ranked much higher than what we believe his perceived value is. 

Turner is a play-maker

Evan Turner - The theme is two-way play. Turner can be a playmaker and he can also team defend with the best in the NBA at the wing. Turner's DEFRTG of 100 ranked 14th out of 109 shooting guards. 

Manu Ginobili - There is probably zero chance he goes anywhere but San Antonio but this certain Hall of Fame combo guard is worth every penny. He can still play and he can mentor. 

Marvin Williams - After years of teasing with his talent, Williams has become a real pro ball player. His shot selection is better, and he can guard multiple positions, including some small forwards which is why he cracked this list. 

Jonas Jerebko - We are still waiting to see what Jerebko might be able to produce if was given 20-plus minutes per game as a wing. His DEFRTG of 98.5 was good enough for tenth among small forwards in 2015-16

Harrison Barnes - We like Harrison Barnes but we are also pretty sure someone is going to overpay for him. 

DeMar DeRozan - See above. 

Tyler Johnson - In our opinion, Johnson, along with Bazemore, are the two guys who offer REAL value. You could probably sign Johnson for a fraction of what DeRozan will cost. Yet, in our opinion, the gap between the two on the floor is a lot smaller than most would think it is. 

Jeremy Lin - Lin showed again last season that he can be a valuable combo guard. He is a smart team defender and a good teammate. 

Dwyane Wade - You figure he stays in Miami. His price will be high. But quality is quality. 

Luol Deng - An absolute pro's pro. Deng remains among the few who rate in the top 30 at their position on both offense and defense. 

Mike Conley - The only point guard we think is really worthy of BIG money in this free-agent class. 

Wesley Johnson - Johnson is a top-tier wing defender. His offense is mostly about the three-ball but he isn't as far off as he once was. 

Hopefully, your team does not screw it up. 

NBA Draft judgement; five years later.

2011 Draftees

You can judge an NBA Draft in the days after it is conducted if you like. It seems pointless to me. The truth is, none of us can predict the future. We are talking about young adults; young men in the age range of 18 to 23. I lived long enough to KNOW the unpredictably of the outcome for each individual. 

Draft report cards for 2016 will be produced. Media members, fans, and even some folks inside the basketball industry will continue to repeat uninformed comparisons. My favorite this year was that Buddy Hield "is J.J. Redick." 

In reality, where I prefer to dwell when it comes to player evaluation, Buddy Hield is a half-FOOT longer than Redick by wingspan. In 2016, details matter. Details have always mattered but in today's ultra-competitive world, let alone the NBA, you better be ELITE in your ability to pay attention to the details. 

A draft is the foundation. You can wheel and deal later. 

Every team should have a Draft plan. You need to know where each player is likely to be picked. It is all about getting value with each selection. Let's say you had three first round picks. Let's say those selections will be made at 15, 23, and 30. You must understand that if the guy you like fourth, overall on your draft board, is not likely to be picked until the late 20's, it makes no sense to pick that player using the 15th pick. That is what we call, wait for it... "premature edraftulation". 

You can get that player later at 23 if you play it safe, or you can gamble and try to get that guy at 30. So with selection 15 the prudent move is to pick another player you feel is the best guy that will certainly not be available when you pick again. 

The above scenario is just one of the reasons teams screw up in the NBA Draft. It may not be obvious 24 to 48 hours after a draft, but let that draft age five years and we can clearly see how present-day successful teams laid their foundation. 

In the 2011 NBA Draft, now ready to be judged, five NBA All-Stars were drafted. The group of five taken in 2011 are franchise pillars today. How about two guys that played in the NBA Finals? Kyrie Irving, the first pick in the 2011 NBA Draft by the World Champion Cleveland Cavaliers, and Klay Thompson who was selected eleventh from the previous year World Champion Golden State Warriors. The third All-Star? It was Kawhi Leonard, picked 15th for the 2014 World Champion San Antonio Spurs. 

Kyrie was at his best in the NBA Finals

Notice a pattern? 

If three of the guys picked in the top 15 were key contributors to NBA title runs, what about the other dozen teams that drafted in the top 15? How did they fare?

The results show that, in general, the teams that drafted a player that is still with them in 2016 did well and the others are now struggling (or continue to struggle). 

• Pick 2 - Derrick Williams - Minnesota. The T-Wolves were not a playoff team in 2015-16, and Williams has bounced from Minnesota to Sacramento to New York. 
• Pick 3 - Enes Kanter - Utah. The Jazz did not make the playoffs. Kanter successfully moved on via trade to Oklahoma City. 
• Pick 4 - Tristan Thompson - Cleveland. Thompson is the starting Center for the NBA Champs. 
• Pick 5 - Jonas Valanciunas - Toronto. Valanciunas is a key piece on a good playoff team.
• Pick 6 - Jan Vesely - Washington. The Wizards did not make the playoffs in 2015-16 and Vesely is out of the league. 
• Pick 7 - Bismack Biyombo - Charlotte. He was drafted by Sacramento for Charlotte on draft day. Biyombo signed as a free agent with Toronto for the 2015-16 season and played a supporting role in their success. 
• Pick 8 - Brandon Knight - Detroit. The Pistons made the Playoffs this season but not with Brandon Knight, He is on his third team, the Phoenix Suns. 
• Pick 9 - Kemba Walker - Kemba is a star guard for the Hornets who made the Playoffs. 
• Pick 10 - Jimmer Fredette - Sacramento. Milwaukee actually drafted Jimmer but he was being selected for the Kings. Fredette has played for four NBA teams, and is a fringe guy now that spent the majority of 2015-16 in the NBA D-League. 
• Pick 12 - Alec Burks - Utah. Burks was hurt last season but he has shown he can be a rotation player in the NBA. 
• Pick 13 - Markieff Morris - Phoenix. Despite his obvious skill, Markieff has had difficulty in human relations. Phoenix traded him to Washington. 
• Pick 14 - Marcus Morris - Houston. Marcus started the majority of the this season for the Detroit Pistons. He is on his third team after a stop in Phoenix. 

Isaiah was the steal of the 2011 NBA Draft

It seems pretty straight forward to me that the NBA Draft is really important to the chances of a team winning with consistency. 

The other two All-Stars from the 2011 Draft were Jimmy Butler (pick 30 by Chicago), and Isaiah Thomas (pick 60). The Celtics acquired Thomas via trade. 

In baseball, base hits matter. The same applies to the NBA Draft. There are a handful of solid to good players that were taken outside of the top 15 picks. Consider... Nikola Vucevic (16th), Iman Shumpert (17th), Tobias Harris (19th), Kenneth Faried (22nd), Nikola Mirotic (23rd), Reggie Jackson (24th), Cory Joseph (29th), Chandler Parsons (38th), and Jon Leuer (40th). 

The first round misses from the 2011 NBA Draft were off target for various reasons. We documented the top 15 above. Other poor selections in the first round were: Chris Singleton (18th by Washington), Nolan Smith (21st by Portland), JaJuan Johnson (27th by Boston). 

Our BasslineSpin / Hoop Obsession 2011 RE-Draft. (Done as if the draft were being held today, knowing what what know and trying to predict the future. Highly subjective)

1. Kawhi Leonard, 2. Klay Thompson, 3. Kyrie Irving, 4. Jimmy Butler, 5. Isaiah Thomas, 6. Kemba Walker, 7. Tobias Harris, 8. Enes Kanter, 9. Tristan Thompson, 10. Jonas Valanciunas, 11. Nikola Vucevic, 12. Reggie Jackson, 13. Bismack Biyombo, 14. Corey Joseph, 15. Brandon Knight, 16.  Chandler Parsons, 17. Kenneth Faried, 18. Jon Leuer, 19. LaVoy Allen, 20. Marcus Morris, 21. Alec Burks, 22. Nikola Mirotic, 23. Donatas Motiejunas, 24. Shelvin Mack, 25. Markieff Morris, 26. Derrick Williams, 27. Iman Shumpert, 28. E'Twaun Moore, 29. Norris Cole, 30. Kyle Singler. 

Peace out, ARCO

Sacramento's sports scene runs as part of the fabric of life as the son of Gary Gerould. My father was rooted in Sacramento television as KCRA's sports guy when I was born. My entire 48 years have been connected to sports and media in the 9-1-6. As such, Sleep Train Arena's last days offer an opportunity for reflection. 

Another commencement ceremony.

The last Sacramento Kings game at Sleep Train Arena is upon us. Mixed emotions hover around the finality of saying goodbye to this big inanimate object. There were good times, and life-lesson learning experiences that occurred in the Capitol City's sports and entertainment complex. 

I was among those that worked at the original ARCO Arena and I was a part of the transition from the old building to the new ARCO (now, Sleep Train) in 1988. At the time, I was employed by the Arena, working as an "audio engineer". Basically, I ran the mixing board that played the music inside and outside the arena. I was 20 years-old and I was in way over my head when representatives from Panasonic of Japan came to Sacramento to help Associated Sound install the mixing board at the new Arena. I didn't have any training in multi-channel audio mixing and it is a wonder patrons at Kings games ever heard anything. The board was massive! Super overkill for what we needed to actually accomplish. 

As a "board op" at the Arena I had to be in attendance for just about every event. Like many of you, I had family members that "walked" during graduation ceremonies held at ARCO Arena. How many times can you loop Pomp and Circumstance? 

In that way, the Arena touched the lives of thousands. My wife took part in two, herself. My nephew recently was a part of the Sac State graduating Class of 2015. 

Luke's Castle

When the new arena opened in 1988, among the requests (actually demands) was to have "castle music" playing on the outside speakers before all Kings games. The guys who ran the Arena, Mike Hyatt, Dutch Van Dusen, Mike Duncan, and others I worked with, all referred to the agenda as "Luke's Castle Music" (in reference to Gregg Luckenbill). It was a pain to have to check on the loop to make sure that the castle music was rolling as fans walked into the building from the parking lots. 

Ricky.

Part of my duties as ARCO Arena "audio engineer" were to set up the national anthem microphones, or any court-side mics that might be needed for Kings games. The ring announcer for boxing at the time was Big Jim Hall, a local country radio personality. Fred Anderson handled the Kings public address duties. 

Ricky Berry died before his sophomore season.

The Arena had hard-wired mic inputs at floor level. I would be running around court side well before the doors opened on a game night. That is how I became friends with Ricky Berry. Ricky, a Kings rookie first-round pick, would always have a comment about my haircut. We both went to a place called Crucial Cuts that had a Sacramento bred Rastafarian barber (James Adwa). Berry didn't know my real name so he just called me "Crucial". He would whoop me in short one-on-one games after I set up the microphones. 

We became good buddies and I spent a large chunk of time with him the summer before what was supposed to be his sophomore season. I was with Ricky hours before he took his own life. To say I was affected by his death would be an understatement. And inevitably the Arena is connected to my memories of Ricky. 

Boxing 

I saw some of the best boxing matches I've ever seen LIVE.  Tony Lopez and Loretto Garza never failed to put on a show. Although the first Lopez / Rocky Lockridge (one of the last events at the old ARCO) was better, the Lopez / Lockridge II at the new building in March 1989 was a great fight too! 

One cool thing about being the board operator was occasionally being able to play the role of "music supervisor". I recall Garza's camp liking my choice of "It's Gonna Be a Beautiful Night" - by Prince as Garza's walk-in music. The kick drum is hyper and easy to clap along to. (listen!)

Arena related memories

I remember one day finding myself driving LaSalle Thompson's Mercedes Benz to the KFC on Northgate, not far from the Arena. As I recall it, I was bored at the Arena and without wheels for some reason so "Tank" gave me the keys to his car so I could run and get some fast food. As a then, 20 year-old, I felt some type of way, driving a car that fancy. 

Basketball memories and thoughts

Jason Kidd dazzled at ARCO as a high school baller. We witnessed his team winning back-to-back California State Championships. 

On the broadcasting side, I was fortunate to interview a young Shaquille O'Neal after a Lakers shoot-around that included Shaq break-dancing. I asked him about Kobe Bryant, who was a rookie that barely played at the time. Shaq said, "You mean, Showboat?" I don't recall what else Shaq said but his initial reaction with the unsanctioned, "Showboat" nickname for Kobe is just one of those things I remember. 

Mitch Richmond (photo at left) was a professional that always impressed with his love for basketball. Mitch was good because he worked continually at his craft. Having a chance to witness his willingness to "put in the work" left a lifelong impression on me. 

The Chris Webber era was all about the fantastic chemistry and skill that team had. Mike Bibby was fearless. Webber and Vlade Divac had assist-to-turnover ratios that rivaled good point guards. Peja Stojakovic was the best Kings shooter ever. 

Isaiah Thomas was/is someone my father admires. I've never met Isaiah but his combination of basketball skills and people skills are extraordinary. 

We took pride in seeing Michael "Yogi" Stewart dominating at Kennedy High School and then transferring those skills to the NBA hardwood at ARCO. Did you know Yogi had a nine-block game as a Kings player? 

Hustles connected to ARCO

Eventually I quit the Arena audio engineering gig to concentrate on finishing my communications degree from Sac State. I was still close to the Kings though, interning for Tim Roye at then, Kings flagship radio station KFBK. As a sports intern you are responsible for getting sound bites so I attended practices and "shoot arounds" at ARCO with regularity. 

Larry Heslin, the Kings equipment manager of the time, my then girlfriend (now wife) and I, became partners in promoting sports card shows in the Sacramento area. Through relationships built at the Arena we did card shows with Kings players as special guests signing free autographs. By far, the biggest show we promoted was at Kennedy High School where we had Lionel Simmons and Duane Causwell signing. We didn't have any cards of Duane Causwell so we hired Rocky Widner, the Kings photographer to make a photo handout of "Causy". We shot the photo around sunset near the Arena. 

Simmons' popularity in Sacramento was through the roof in his rookie season. I remember "Train" being annoyed at Larry and I because we never set a limit on how many autographs Lionel would have to sign. He was such a good dude with a big heart that he begrudgingly stayed longer than he should have and signed every last autograph that was requested. (We had over 900 attendees that rainy day.)  

We promoted shows for Anthony Bonner, Travis Mays, and Kenny "The Jet" Smith too. Simultaneously, I was getting experience behind the microphone acting as CO-host of the Jerry Reynolds Show on KSAC. Jerry and I did the radio talk show live from the KSAC studios in Old Sacramento. That gig helped me gain full-time employment with the Kings. 

Oct.1993, our view at wedding rehearsal dinner. 

Working for the Kings

After graduation I signed on as a part of the transition the Kings broadcast team was making. In 1994, the Kings decided to take their broadcast content "in-house". 

I spent two seasons doing pre and post game radio and even did a few games as the television sideline reporter (1994-1996). It was unbelievably cool to get a job with the Kings fresh out of college. 

In the best of times, I would be court side to do a pre-game radio talk show. I actually did two or three turns as the public address announcer when Fred Anderson had a conflict. My wife, Kim, and I actually had our wedding rehearsal dinner at ARCO Arena in 1993. Mike Duncan helped hook that up. 

To this second, the loudest ANYTHING I've heard in my lifetime, was the sustained ovation from the Kings fans when the team returned home for Game 3 of the 1996 Western Conference Playoffs against the Seattle Supersonics. We did the radio pre-game show from court level and it was so loud you couldn't hear yourself speak with headphones on. 

Another treasured memory is an interview I did with Connie Hawkins. He sat with me live, court side, and we talked about the Lakers and Celtics rivalries for a good half hour. To this day, I wish I had a tape of that interview. 

As the resident young person on the Kings broadcast staff, I was also "Emcee-Boy". I was used to host events such as the NBA Stay in School Jam, or the NBA Draft Party. I didn't know it at the time, but I shared the microphone with future international TV news superstar Lisa Ling at one of the Stay in School Jams at ARCO. 

Attending any Kings game is a truly social event. When you have access as a media member it is even more social. Some of the best times during my run with the Kings was just hanging before the games in the media dining room or out near the court just after the doors opened. Chatting with Jerry Reynolds, Marty McNeal, or the notorious keeper of realness, R.E. Graswich, never failed to enlighten or amuse me. Some nights you might talk with Jason Ross or Guss Armstead, or Anna in the Kings Family Room. 

For all intents and purposes I was fired at the Arena too. It happened in the offices that dwell between the lower bowl and upper deck on the third floor. I was told that the Kings chose to not renew the contracts of myself and Derrek Dickey. 

Being a part of the NBA, no matter how small your role is, is a lifelong dream for many. I learned the hard way how fleeting it can be. 

Music matters

The best concert I saw at ARCO was certainly the 1997 Prince, "Jam of the Year" tour stop. My wife, Kim, favors the U2 "Zoo-TV" show from April 1992. My wife and I were blown away by Sade's vocal power (Sade with Digable Planets July 1993).  

ARCO in concert trim

Meeting some of your idols is a cool life event too. Inside the frame of the Arena I shook hands for the first time with James Harris III, better known as Jimmy Jam. The five-time Grammy winner used to be such a fan of the Minnesota Timberwolves, he attended Kings-T-Wolves Playoffs games in Sacramento. The two other musicians I introduced myself to were a young production/writing duo that were in the band, The Deele. With free access in the Arena as an employee, I wasn't supposed to be back stage at concerts but somehow I weaseled my way behind the stage to give a salute to Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, and L.A. Reid. I recall Edmonds being shocked that I knew his real name. 

Meanwhile Raphael Saadiq was a regular at Kings games during the Mitch Richmond era. Saddiq, a crucial founding member of Tony! Toni! Tone'!, was close friends with Kings forward Brian Grant. 

While Wayman Tisdale was with the Kings, he too, was a friend in music. In my opinion, music was always Wayman's first love. He was a heck of a ball player too. Another friend in music I met was a security guard at ARCO by the name of Raymond Kennedy. Just less than a month ago we attended his funeral services.

Halftime talk

At halftime, for years, before they moved the radio broadcast vantage point upstairs, I would head into the Kings Family Room. My Dad would come back there during his break from calling the games and we would dissect the first half. It was not uncommon to have a short conversation with Wayne Cooper or his wife, Denise, two of my favorite people ever! 

Closing the Doors

We sit in section 115. Our family has had Kings season tickets since 1985. Team Dentist, Matt Campbell and his wife Irene sit right behind us, as do the Sheingold family. We made plans to sit near each other at the Golden 1 Center. 

I absolutely will not miss the narrow concourses at Sleep Train. The Arena just is not BIG enough for a large crowd at halftime or immediately following a game. I also will not miss the squeaky Locker Room door that is in perpetual need of WD40. (Listen carefully to interviews done near or in the Locker Room. You will hear that door!)

So, peace-out ARCO. Let's hope that the Golden 1 Center brings a new era of positive vibrations.