The NBA Summer League final provided a thrilling showcase of talent, with a particular focus on former college basketball stars from the Inland Northwest. The game featured a matchup between Cedric Coward of Washington State and Eastern Washington, and Graham Ike, a Gonzaga alum. What makes this encounter fascinating is the contrast between these players, who never shared the court in college but now find themselves on the biggest stage in basketball.
The Rising Stars
Cedric Coward, a former WSU and Eastern Washington guard, had an impressive rookie season, finishing fifth in the Rookie of the Year voting. His journey is remarkable, as he played in just six games at WSU but was mentored by current Wazzu coach David Riley during his time at Eastern Washington. Coward's performance in the Summer League final was stellar, tying for the team scoring crown with 19 points, including a sizzling 5-for-5 from beyond the arc. This young talent is definitely one to watch as he continues to make his mark in the NBA.
Graham Ike, on the other hand, played a crucial role in the Golden State Warriors' championship victory, grabbing nine rebounds despite making only one shot. This speaks volumes about his dedication to the team's success, as he contributed in ways beyond scoring. The Warriors' win is a testament to their ability to develop young talent and build a winning culture.
The Northwest Connection
The Northwest region has become a hotbed for basketball talent, with several former Cougs, Gonzaga Bulldogs, and a Vandal making their mark in the NBA and WNBA. One notable name is Klay Thompson, who, despite a career-low season with the Dallas Mavericks, could potentially find himself back with the Golden State Warriors, especially if they miss out on signing LeBron James. The LeBron sweepstakes have the entire basketball world on hold, and the Warriors, with their history of success with Thompson, might be a perfect fit for a reunion.
Another rising star is Jaylen Wells, who, after a toe surgery, is poised for a larger role with the Memphis Grizzlies. The team's rebuild offers him a great opportunity to showcase his skills. Meanwhile, Efe Abogidi, a former Coug, continues his professional journey in the G-League, awaiting his NBA debut. The Northwest's influence on the league is undeniable, and these players are making their alma maters proud.
WNBA's Rising Star
In the WNBA, Charlisse Leger-Walker, a former WSU women's basketball star, is making waves. Her performance against the Storm, where she scored 16 points and made crucial plays down the stretch, showcased her talent and determination. What's impressive is her ability to step up in big moments, and her numbers reflect a steady improvement as she gains more playing time. Leger-Walker is a prime example of the rising talent coming out of the Northwest, and her success is a testament to the region's growing basketball prowess.
The Journey of Isaac Jones
Isaac Jones, a former Idaho Vandal and WSU Cougar, embodies the resilience and adaptability of these Northwest players. After a successful rookie season with the Sacramento Kings, he faced a setback when they chose to move on. However, Jones quickly rebounded with the Detroit Pistons, where he has found a home and a culture that values his skills. His journey highlights the importance of perseverance and finding the right fit in the NBA. Personally, I find these stories of players overcoming challenges and making their mark on the league truly inspiring.
In conclusion, the NBA Summer League final was more than just a game; it was a celebration of the rising talent from the Inland Northwest. The region's basketball programs are producing players who are not only skilled but also resilient and adaptable. As the new season approaches, keep an eye on these former college stars as they continue to shine on the biggest stages of professional basketball.
