Former Kentucky Basketball star, Bam Adebayo is turning heads in the Orlando Summer League.
After a standout one and done year for Kentucky basketball, Bam Adebayo is having a very good star to his NBA career. After being drafted 14th overall to the Miami Heat, Adebayo has been watched very closely. Although he’s only played three games, his future in Miami is looking very bright. If he keeps this play up he could very well be a starter once the regular season rolls around.
Debut vs Charlotte
In his very first NBA Summer League game Adebayo did a little bit of everything. He tallied a double-double scoring 14 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. That’s not all, he also recorded three blocks, two assists and a steal. If he can continue to make an impact on both sides of the ball he could have an immediate impact once the regular season starts. This game got Heat fans excited for what else was to come from their first rounder.
Game 2 vs Orlando
In his “worst” showing of the Summer League so far against the Orlando Magic, Adebayo has a solid game. In the only game he hasn’t gotten a double-double, Adebayo finished with 14 points and nine rebounds. He also recorded two steals and two blocks to go along with his stat line. Through the first two games he showed a lot of promise offensively and defensively. His strength and shot blocking ability make him a special player who will fit in perfectly in the system and style of play in Miami. He and Hassan Whiteside will be a fearful duo to go against for years to come.
Monster Game vs Indiana
The game that started to turn heads around social media and beyond was against the Pacers, this past Monday. Adebayo finished with 29 points along with 11 rebounds which were both highs for him this Summer League. Also picking up two blocks and one assist and a steal, he dominated in every facet of the game. Finishing in about every was possible; euro steps, dunks, jumpers, etc. he was a man amongst boys.
BAM! @BAM1of1 puts up 29 points & grabs 11 boards for the @MiamiHEAT in Orlando! #NBASummer pic.twitter.com/t5xinXd4iE
— NBA (@NBA) July 4, 2017
His 29 point Summer League performance was more than his career high at Kentucky, which was 25. With more performances like this he will without a doubt be in the conversation for the Rookie of the Year.
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With the Summer League coming to an end for Adebayo, he can only get better from here. So far in the Orlando Summer League, Bam is the only player averaging a double-double. Last season the Heat barely missed the playoffs but adding Adebayo, he could be the piece that takes them over the top.