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Although Summer League games might not attract the widest audience, it’s an opportunity for rookies and returners to make a name for themselves. That is particularly true for the Clippers, arriving in Las Vegas with a roster highlighted by 2021 draftees Keon Johnson, Jason Preston, and BJ Boston hoping to make a splash in their debut.
The Clippers are also bringing Jay Scrubb, Daniel Oturu, and Amir Coffey into the rotation, who are all expected to utilize their NBA experience from this past season. The roster is rounded out by a mix of undrafted and international players, like Isaiah Hicks from the Korean Basketball League and Lydell Elmore from High Point University.
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It’s hard to predict how the first Summer League game will look, with two unfamiliar rosters filled with relatively inexperienced players matching up for the first time. However, both teams will certainly compete. Milwaukee is able to employ a potent weapon in Jordan Nwora, who averaged 21 points playing for Nigeria in the Tokyo Olympics and won a championship with the Bucks last year. Clippers assistant coach Jeremy Castleberry, who is leading the Summer League team, emphasized the need to familiarize the players with the team’s basic schemes and the Clippers’ culture.
During the game, make sure to keep an eye on Jay Scrubb. The JUCO alum was on a two-way contract with the Clippers for the 2020-2021 season, logging only 21 minutes in four games. With Kawhi Leonard being out for most if not all of the 2021-2022 season, Scrubb may find himself in position to make a real impact on the floor. He’s already displayed an impressive athleticism with a willingness to score, qualities that bode well for his future with the team.
This game won’t feature any superstars, but you won’t want to miss the first look at the Clippers’ future talent.
Game Information
When: Monday, August 9, 6 p.m. PT
Where: Cox Pavilion, Las Vegas, NV
How to watch/listen: ESPNU
Opposing perspective: Brew Hoop