The 2024 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas has officially concluded, and the Miami Heat emerged victorious as champions after a perfect 6-0 run. In the championship game, the Heat defeated the Memphis Grizzlies with a close score of 120-118, with the game going into overtime after GG Jackson’s game-tying shot. Ultimately, Pelle Larsson secured the win for Miami with a clutch shot in overtime.
One standout player from the Summer League was Scotty Pippen Jr., who showcased his skills with 29 points, 11 assists, and five rebounds. Despite going undrafted in 2022, Pippen’s performance has garnered attention, especially after signing a two-year, two-way deal with Memphis. Fans have been impressed by his elevated play throughout the Summer League, leading to discussions about his potential impact in the upcoming NBA season.
Another player who turned heads during the Summer League was Kel’el Ware, the Heat’s first-round pick. Ware demonstrated his versatility on both ends of the court, finishing his Summer League campaign with an impressive 21 points and 10 rebounds in his final game. As a former Indiana star who slipped to the No. 15 pick, Ware has the potential to be a steal for Miami, with fans already hyping him up as a Rookie of the Year candidate.
Additionally, Josh Christopher, a first-round pick from the 2022 NBA draft, showcased his value in the Summer League finale. With back-to-back 20-point games in the semifinal and championship, Christopher finished strong with 24 points, four rebounds, three steals, and two blocks. Fans are now calling for the Heat to retain Christopher for the regular season, emphasizing his potential impact on the team.
As the Summer League comes to a close, players like Pippen, Ware, and Christopher will be looking to secure roster spots and make a lasting impression as they transition to the NBA. The performances of these rising stars have generated excitement among fans and analysts, with expectations running high for their future contributions to their respective teams.