2018 Summer League: Sixers vs. Grizzlies Preview and Game Thread

After struggling to an 0-3 start in the desert, back-to-back last-minute victories in the knockout stage have propelled the Sixers to the quarterfinals of Las Vegas Summer League. Last night against the Bucks, Furkan Korkmaz joined the likes of Reggie Miller and Tracy McGrady for dynamite scoring sequences, exploding for 8 points in 40 seconds in the final minute to carry the Sixers across the finish line.

Having battled with first overall pick DeAndre Ayton and hungry-for-a-contract Christian Wood the last two contests, Jonah Bolden will have another big test tonight facing fourth overall pick Jaren Jackson, Jr. As anticipated, triple-J’s defense has translated to the next level. The former Michigan State big man has averaged 10.5 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 3.8 blocks in Vegas, including a whopping 7 blocks in Memphis’s Round of 16 win over the Jazz.

The other driving force for the Grizzlies has been second round pick Jevon Carter. The hard-nosed former West Virginia point guard has logged 12.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 1.4 steals. Carter went off against Utah for 26 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals, and a block. For his efforts, he officially signed a multi-year agreement with Memphis earlier today.

Tonight, let’s see Zhaire Smith attack Jackson, Jr. at the rim. Let’s watch Korkmaz draw Carter on a switch and hit a stepback jumper over him. Most of all, let’s enjoy the Sixers continue their march to Summer League immortality.

Time: 10:00pm EST

Location: Thomas and Mack Center, Las Vegas, NV

TV: ESPN2