Philadelphia 76ers fall short to Memphis Grizzlies 87-85 in gritty Summer League fight

The Philadelphia 76ers were coming off of an ecstatic Summer League win over the Oklahoma City Thunder in a game that gave a regular season atmosphere, however, tonight it truly felt like the dog days of Summer. Philadelphia lost to the Memphis Grizzlies 87-85 after Grizzlies forward Jaylen Wells rolled in a game-winning hook shot.

Tonight’s match didn’t feature any electric performances like what Ricky Council IV put up last night, but there were still some solid takeaways from this youthful 76ers group, my three biggest observations:

76ers’ Jared McCain found his shot

Jared McCain with back to back 3s. 🔥

(via @espn)

pic.twitter.com/ehxy5tGdpd

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) July 9, 2024

After shooting 0-6 from three last night, rookie Jared McCain had a short memory and quickly caught fire from beyond in the first quarter. McCain buried a pair of spot-up threes from both the corner and the wing along with showing off other parts of his offensive game as well.

Against Oklahoma City, Jared McCain’s slashing ability was on full display, but this time around, the rookie added another element to it. McCain saw multiple defenders as he drove to the rim and instead of forcing a tough inside shot, he found cutters and weak-side shooters.

Finishing and playmaking are both considered weaknesses in Jared McCain’s game and he’s shown that he’s capable of doing both at a quality level early on in the Summer League. If McCain can maintain his dynamic offense, he’ll be sure to crack the 76ers’ rotation come October.

Jared McCain finished the night with 12 points, 4 assists, and 3 rebounds, on 3-10 field shooting and 3-7 shooting from deep.

76ers UDFA Justin Edwards shows promise

Justin Edwards:

12 PTS | 3-3 from 3 pic.twitter.com/V8hjAioQvV

— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) July 9, 2024

Undrafted free agent turned 76ers two-way player, Justin Edwards’ Summer League debut against the Thunder was uneventful, putting up a donut with 0-2 shooting from the field. The Philadelphia native bounced back tonight with 14 points, 3 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 2 steals, on 5-7 shooting from the field and 3-3 shooting from three.

Most of Justin Edwards’ threes were courtesy of Jared McCain’s rim gravity as the two established a solid drive-and-kick partnership throughout the game. Edwards also showed capability of creating his shot in the paint off the dribble and displayed sound all-around defensive instincts.

76ers may have hidden gem in Keve Aluma

Keve Aluma in the Summer League

15 PTS / 4 REB / 1 BLK / 7-9 FG
12 PTS / 8 REB / 2 AST / 5-5 FG

The Sixers have one two-way slot remaining👀

(📸: Melissa Majchrzak / Getty Images) pic.twitter.com/UGPWpg8Xzr

— Jacob Moreno (@jmoreno76ers) July 10, 2024

The 76ers snagged forward Keve Aluma from overseas to fill their Summer League roster and he’s produced two solid double-digit scoring performances in Philadelphia’s first two Salt Lake City games. Aluma was the 76ers’ second-highest scorer tonight with 15 points on 7-9 field shooting off the bench.

While Philadelphia already has a promising front-court prospect in 41st overall pick Adem Bona, Aluma has flashed some two-way potential that could make him a strong candidate to occupy the 76ers’ third two-way slot.

Keve Aluma’s shot-blocking and post defense have popped out along with his versatile offensive game consisting of spot-up threes and a feel for the low post.

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