The 2024 NBA Summer League California Classic continued on Sunday night, featuring recent top picks in the draft as well as players that are looking to secure their spot on a regular-season roster.
Every NBA team won’t be playing in the Summer League until July 12 in Las Vegas, but several first-round picks were still in action. This includes Dalton Knecht and Kel’el Ware.
Bronny James was inactive on Sunday, as he was held out for precautionary reasons after experiencing some swelling in his left knee. He’s expected to be back for the Los Angeles Lakers’ next contest on Wednesday.
Stephon Castle was also inactive for the San Antonio Spurs’ game against the Sacramento Kings.
Here’s a closer look at the performances of other notable players throughout the day.
Kel’el Ware Looks Even Better in Second Summer League Game
Despite his status as the No. 15 overall pick in the draft, Miami Heat center Kel’el Ware is already looking like a steal through two games.
Ware recorded a double-double during Miami’s victory, scoring 26 points and pulling down 11 rebounds in just over 29 minutes on the floor. He was nearly unstoppable after halftime, scoring 18 points in the second half.
While Ware wasn’t able to connect on his two long-range attempts, he still shot 57.1 percent from the field. Fans were amazed by his performance.
Dalton Knecht Delivers Highlights Despite Inefficient Performance
Knecht, the Lakers’ 2024 first-round pick, showed flashes of upside although he struggled with his overall efficiency. After shooting 3-12 from the field and 1-4 from behind the arc on Saturday, he connected on just three of his 13 attempts on Sunday.
The 23-year-old still ended up with a team-high 12 points while recording two rebounds and an assist. Knecht also held his own on the defensive end of the floor, picking up two steals.
The No. 17 overall pick in the 2024 draft hasn’t found his shooting rhythm through two Summer League games, although fans remained positive about his outlook entering his rookie season.
Ethan Thompson Leads the Way as the Warriors Secure Another Win
Thompson spent the 2023-24 season with the Mexico City Capitanes in the NBA G League, although he’s making a strong case for a roster spot in the NBA through two Summer League games.
The 25-year-old guard finished with a double-double of his own during Golden State’s win over the Lakers, recording 22 points and 11 rebounds on 53.3 percent shooting. He also hit 40 percent of his threes on Sunday, connecting on all four of his attempts from the charity stripe. Thompson added four assists and three steals.
He’s now averaging 24.5 points per game through two contests, leaving a strong impression on fans.
Salt Lake City Summer League action is up next on Monday, starting with the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Philadelphia 76ers at 7 p.m. ET.