Five former Missouri Tigers basketball players entered the NBA 2K27 Summer League in Las Vegas, Nevada, bringing a mix of fresh talent and seasoned prospects to the court.
Tamar Bates made an immediate impact for the Utah Jazz, dropping nine points and pulling down three rebounds in his first summer league appearance, signaling a promising start to his professional journey.
Mark Mitchell, signed by the Denver Nuggets, contributed eight points and three rebounds in his debut, offering a glimpse of the versatility that attracted the franchise.
Sean East II, a 26‑year‑old veteran, suited up for the Cleveland Cavaliers, logging three points in eight minutes of action, a modest but telling debut for the experienced guard.
Jevon Porter, playing for the Memphis Grizzlies, posted 12 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in his second summer league game, underscoring his rebounding prowess.
Caleb Grill, listed on the Boston Celtics’ summer league roster, did not see minutes in the Celtics’ opening contest, leaving his on‑court evaluation pending.
Eligibility Uncertainty
Shawn Phillips Jr. entered the league under an injunction that granted him an additional season of eligibility, a legal twist that has left his future roster status with the New Orleans Pelicans uncertain.
Missouri’s coaching staff, led by head coach Dennis Gates, noted that the Tigers’ 2026‑27 roster is already at capacity, closing the door on a potential return for Phillips, though a comeback at LSU remains a possibility.
The intricate injunction situation surrounding Phillips is expected to evolve over the coming months, potentially reshaping the outlook for the former Tiger.