The NBA Summer League in Las Vegas served as a proving ground for a group of former Missouri Tigers, each looking to translate college success into professional opportunities. Eight recent graduates stepped onto the court, representing a mix of teams and contracts, from two‑way deals to standard summer‑league assignments.
Standout Showings
Tamar Bates, operating on a two‑way contract with the Utah Jazz, emerged as the most productive of the bunch, leveraging his versatility to generate scoring bursts and defensive stops. Caleb Grill, signed by the Boston Celtics, shot an impressive 57.1 percent from the field, while John Tonje, also with the Celtics, posted a league‑high 14.8 points per game and hit 51 percent of his attempts. Mark Mitchell, playing for the Denver Nuggets, contributed 4.8 points per game, and Sean East II, with the Cleveland Cavaliers, averaged 3.6 points across four appearances.
Jevon Porter, who earned a notable stint with the Memphis Grizzlies in the Salt Lake City Summer League, demonstrated his ability to impact games beyond the box score, while Trevon Brazile, now with the Denver Nuggets after a transfer to Arkansas, posted a robust 18.7 points per game, underscoring his readiness for a larger role.
Off‑Court Hurdles
Shawn Phillips Jr. encountered an eligibility injunction that kept him off the court, despite having signed a contract with the New Orleans Pelicans. The situation highlights the contractual and regulatory complexities that can affect rookie prospects.
The Summer League’s broader purpose remains clear: it offers a platform for emerging talent to attract free‑agent interest ahead of the upcoming season. With scouts, general managers and player personnel departments all watching, the performances in Las Vegas and Salt Lake City could prove decisive for the next chapter of these former Tigers.