Stephon Castle looked poised and showed a savvy presence in his head-to-head battle against his former UConn teammate.
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The 20th year of NBA summer hoops in Las Vegas continued with an eight-game slate featuring a slew of top talent from the 2023 and 2024 NBA Draft. Here’s a look at the players who shined brightest on Saturday:
Stephon Castle, San Antonio
With a matchup against his former UConn teammate Donovan Clingan on deck, Castle and the Spurs got the best of the Blazers in a 83-77 victory. With an aggressive mindset from the jump, he put up 21 shots (connecting on 8) while shooting 2-for-6 from 3 and 4-for-5 at the line, adding five rebounds, four assists and a steal. Castle’s game-high 22 points outpaced Clingan’s four, though the center pulled down a game-high 13 rebounds and blocked five shots.
Jaime Jaquez Jr., Miami
A fan favorite for his quick rise in the Heat rotation, Jaquez Jr. showed the value of that seasoning in his 2024 Vegas debut. Racking up 29 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists and a steal in 31 minutes, Jaquez shot 10-for-18 from the field and 9-for-11 at the line, delivering highlight dunks and hustle all around in a 119-114 victory over the Celtics.
Brandon Miller, Charlotte
Now in his 2nd NBA season, Brandon Miller picks up where he left off with a stellar sophomore debut at Summer League.
The No. 2 overall pick a year ago, Hornets swingman Miller steadily improved and provided a surprisingly stout challenge to unanimous Kia Rookie of the Year Victor Wembanyama. He picked right up where he left off, delivering 23 points (7-16 FGs. 5-10 3PM) and eight rebounds in the Hornets’ 94-90 win over the Knicks. He’ll have to reel in the turnovers (7 on Saturday)
Cody Williams, Utah
With the chance to take the floor for the Jazz in Las Vegas, Cody Williams began making the NBA case for a clear path out of the shadow of older brother Jalen. Offering a strong two-way effort that culminated in 21 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists in a 90-89 Jazz victory, Williams produced efficient offense (9-15 FGs, 3-6 3PM) and canny instincts.
