In the featured ESPN Vegas Summer League game of the day, commentators Doris Burke and Mark Jones primarily focused on Bronny James’ Vegas debut and JJ Redick, with a mention of Dalton Knecht. Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets, featuring Reed Sheppard and Cam Whitmore, came ready to play basketball.
As analyzing Summer League games can be challenging due to their inconsistent nature, let’s focus on individual players and notable events.
The game began with the Lakers holding a slight edge, potentially due to their participation in the California Classic, which gave them more time to gel as a team. However, it was clear that the Rockets boasted superior talent and depth, which eventually became evident as the game progressed.
The Rockets fielded last year’s Summer League MVP, Cam Whitmore, along with players like Nate Williams, Jermaine Samuels, and Nate Hinton. These players, often considered the deep bench squad, brought a tough, relentless, and physical style to the game. Despite their limitations in shooting, they contributed with high energy and effort.
The Rockets also highlighted the third pick in the NBA draft, Reed Sheppard, as well as AJ Griffin, who was traded for the 2-44 pick, and unsigned free agent N’Faly Dante from Oregon. Kira Lewis Jr. was also part of the team, striving to revive his promising NBA career, which had been hindered by injuries.
As the game unfolded, the Rockets’ superior talent began to shine, especially through the performances of Reed Sheppard and Cam Whitmore.
Whitmore, despite starting off with poor shot selection and a lack of defense, transformed in the second half. He provided spectacular assists, grabbed rebounds, executed impressive dunks, and showcased his athleticism. In under 28 minutes, he scored 20 points on 8-17 shooting, grabbed 10 rebounds, handed out 4 assists, and secured 4 steals.
Reed Sheppard also stood out, scoring 23 points on 9-17 shooting, grabbing 4 rebounds, dishing out 5 assists, securing a steal, and blocking three shots. His 4-6 performance from beyond the arc, including deep three-pointers off the bounce, showcased his NBA range. Sheppard’s quick and pure shooting form looks promising, even though he made some typical rookie mistakes.
Another notable player was AJ Griffin, who displayed a mix of potential and inconsistency. His athleticism on offense contrasted with struggles on defense. Despite being in his third year, Griffin’s performance in this game—8 points on 2-7 shooting, along with 2 rebounds, 0 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks in 29 minutes—was underwhelming.
N’Faly Dante, showing his experience from five years at Oregon, appeared NBA-ready. With a sturdy build, excellent wingspan, and good speed for his size, Dante contributed effectively on defense and in setting picks. His stat line mainly reflected rebounds and blocks, but his overall activity and effort were notable.
On the other hand, Bronny James seemed not yet ready for the NBA. His attempt to accelerate his three-point shot resulted in inconsistency. Another year in college might have been beneficial for his development.
Ultimately, to the disappointment of ESPN and others, the Houston Rockets emerged victorious in this game.