Two college stars made their NBA summer league debuts on Monday as reigning two-time player of the year Zach Edey and second-team All-American Kyle Filipowski took the court for the Memphis Grizzles and Utah Jazz, respectively, in Utah’s 97-95 overtime win.
Edey excelled on both ends, posting 14 points, 15 rebounds, four blocks and the game-tying tip-in off a missed free throw to tie the game at 90, a bucket that got Grizzlies star Ja Morant’s attention.
Edey was a force to be reckoned with on the defensive end, during a block into a bucket on the other end.
He also showed some mobility in running down the floor to finish a transition bucket following a GG Jackson dish.
And his size, understandably, was a problem down low.
Edey got rave reviews for his work.
Filipowski had a tough opening night, going scoreless in 16 minutes (0-of-4 on three-pointers) while grabbing four rebounds. Some fans pointed out his rough showing (which should be taken with a grain of salt given that it’s Day 1 of summer league), while others pointed out bright spots.
Edey and the Grizzlies are back Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET against the Philadelphia 76ers. Utah will play the Oklahoma City Thunder at 9 p.m.