Former 76ers guard Grant Riller discusses time with team, NBA return

NCAA BASKETBALL: DEC 15 Charleston at East Carolina
GREENVILLE, NC – DECEMBER 15: Charleston Cougars guard Grant Riller (1) sits on the bench in a NCAA Basketball game between the East Carolina Pirates and the Charleston Cougars on December 15, 2016 at Williams Area at Minges Coliseum in Greenville, NC. Charleston defeated East Carolina 53 – 35. (Photo by Greg Thompson/Icon Sportswire)

It’s been quite the trip for former Charleston guard Grant Riller since being drafted in 2020. After signing a two-way contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, Riller dealt with multiple injuries throughout the 2021-22 season that derailed a once-promising opportunity for the young guard. Flash forward to today; Riller is healthy, hungry, and ready to go; he just needs an NBA team to take a flyer on him. I caught up with Grant Riller and discussed his season with the 76ers, his recovery, NBA return, and more. Here’s what he had to say:

Former 76ers guard Grant Riller

Right from the jump, Grant Riller made an impression. Having just wrapped up a workout, Riller showed off not only his hard work but a Sixers workout shirt, instantly winning over myself and Baseline Scoop co-host Justin Crosby.

The former 56th pick in the 2020 NBA draft suffered both a torn meniscus and a torn labrum last season, and while that ended his time with both the Philadelphia 76ers and the Delaware Blue Coats, he felt that he was still able to make an impression with the team. He built relationships, showed off his skill set, and even said it was a situation he’d love to return to. You could tell that Riller valued his time with the Sixers and didn’t take a moment for granted.

Recently, Riller worked out in front of NBA personnel for various teams as he continues to make his return to the league. During the workout, Riller was able to remind teams of his smooth shot, his quickness, and most importantly,

As far as a return to Philadelphia, when asked, Riller immediately replied, “I could definitely see that happening. At least from my side.” He mentioned the team has stayed in contact throughout his rehab but clarified that it doesn’t guarantee they will pursue him.

The Sixers could certainly use a player like Riller, who is a do-it-all offensive guard. His ability to shoot, rebound, and facilitate an offense would fill multiple needs for Philadelphia. Hopefully, the former Charleston Cougars’ days with the Sixers are not done; they’ll just have to be sure to secure him before another team does. The Utah Jazz already have welcomed in Riller for a work out, so nothing is guaranteed as far as a Philly return.