The Summer League Sixers came away with the win in their Las Vegas debut against the Detroit Pistons on Saturday night, with a final score of 94-81.
Ricky Council IV continued to look electric, leading all scorers with 24 points. While he went 7-17 from the field, he did have an uncharacteristic 1-6 from deep. But the 6’6” young guard had a solid overall night, making all nine of his free throws and contributing six rebounds and two steals – all without committing a turnover.
Jeff Dowtin Jr., Adem Bona, and Jared McCain all had a strong start to the Vegas Summer League as well. Dowtin continues to impress with both his shooting and playmaking abilities. The 27-year-old went 7-13 from the field and grabbed over half of the team’s assists (8 out of 14 total) for the entire game. For his part, Bona is already making strides defensively, putting up more blocks (five) than the entire Pistons team (four).
Although his listed height of 6’8” isn’t particularly impressive by NBA standards, his speed and athleticism allow him to hunt down opponents before they can get a shot off. And while McCain has yet to have a true breakout game in terms of shooting, his deftness in setting up plays for his teammates continues to impress.
But the breakout star of the game was for sure Keve Aluma, who ended his night with 19 points, 8 rebounds, a steal, and a block. While Aluma showed some nice flashes as a lengthy shooter and quick rebounder in Salt Lake City, this was easily his best showing.
The Sixers still have one two-way contract available, and Aluma should be in contention for it. He’s played well as both the backup big to Adem Bona and at the power forward spot. At 6’9” and with a highly efficient 8-10 shooting, he could be a nice final depth piece for a Sixers team that currently lacks a power forward who can shoot.
Philadelphia will look to continue their hot start on Monday, July 15, taking on the Portland Trail Blazers at 8:30 pm EST.
