Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Hawks Flying High in Summer League?

The NBA summer league is now in full swing! This allows us to get a look at the NBA’s next batch of superstars! Whether you are watching to see how the first overall pick Ben Simmons is doing or the question mark in the draft Thon Maker, it will be an interesting summer. Saint Joseph’s University students and alumni are glued to their TV’s as well. As we watch how our former superstar DeAndre Bembry adjusts to the NBA, and our former most improved player Isaiah Miles tries to make an NBA squad. Both players bring different unique games to their respective teams. These two have much different paths, but both hope to be great assets to their NBA teams.

DeAndre Bembry- Atlanta Hawks 21st Overall
There is no doubt Bembry has continued his college dominance right onto the NBA summer league. Many reporters and fans are calling him the best player on the Hawks summer team, and his skills are truly being shown. Not only has Bembry brought his strong ability to take the ball to the rim, and his unbelievable defense to the NBA. But, he also brought along his never quit work ethic. Bembry has increased his basketball IQ, meaning he is taking shots that he is much more confortable with. DeAndre has also improved his ability to distribute the basketball among his teammates, something he was known on Hawk Hill for. In three games Bembry is averaging 10pts 4.7assists and 4.7rebounds. He is bringing his do all attitude right along with him to the NBA. It is clear to see the 21st overall pick will continue to garner a lot of attention and playing time. Look for Bembry to be in the headlines in Atlanta come this fall.

Isaiah Miles- Dallas Mavericks Undrafted
Unlike his former teammate, Isaiah Miles is taking a much different approach for his path to the NBA. Miles wasn’t drafted, nor was he high on many teams’ draft boards. Miles is looking to take an approach much like that of Langston Galloway his former teammate. However, the former Hawks big man is looking to translate his unique game to the NBA. As someone who is both tall and can shoot the three, there were many questions surrounding how Miles game would work in the NBA. Miles has struggled early on in the summer league only averaging 1.7ppg and 3.3rebounds in three games. Miles though has always been a late starter. Look for his numbers to increase has the summer season goes on. Miles will continue to do his job on the court, he will score when open and pull down rebounds when needed. Minutes will be the biggest enemy for Isaiah Miles. If Miles can continue to improve his shot and rebounding ability, he may find himself a valuable asset in the D-League for an NBA team.

-Brett 

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