Which Former UNM and Mountain West Players Are in the Las Vegas Summer League?

The Las Vegas Summer League is a hotbed of basketball talent, offering a tantalizing glimpse of the NBA’s future stars. This year, several former players from the University of New Mexico (UNM) and the Mountain West Conference are taking center stage. Which former UNM and Mountain West players are in the Las Vegas Summer League? Their performances not only showcase their individual growth but also highlight the strength and competitiveness of their alma maters. So, which former UNM and Mountain West players are in the Las Vegas Summer League? Let’s dive in and find out!

Former UNM Players

Tim Williams

Tim Williams, a standout forward during his time at UNM, is one of the key players to watch. Known for his versatility and scoring ability, Williams was a pivotal player for the Lobos. His post moves and mid-range game made him a tough matchup in college, and he’s bringing that same skill set to the Summer League.

Achievements at UNM

  • All-Mountain West First Team: Williams was named to the All-Mountain West First Team during his junior year, highlighting his impact on the court.
  • Top Scorer: He consistently led the Lobos in scoring and rebounding, proving to be a reliable offensive threat.

Anthony Mathis

Anthony Mathis, a sharpshooting guard, also represents UNM in the Summer League. Mathis’s shooting prowess, particularly from beyond the arc, made him a fan favorite and a critical asset for the Lobos.

Achievements at UNM

  • Three-Point Specialist: Mathis holds one of the top spots in UNM’s history for three-pointers made, showcasing his lethal accuracy from long range.
  • Leadership: As a senior, Mathis’s leadership both on and off the court was instrumental in guiding the younger players and maintaining team morale.

Former Mountain West Players

Justin James (Wyoming)

Justin James, a former star at the University of Wyoming, is another prominent name in the Las Vegas Summer League. Known for his dynamic scoring and athleticism, James was a force to be reckoned with in the Mountain West.

Achievements at Wyoming

  • All-Mountain West First Team: James’s stellar performances earned him a spot on the All-Mountain West First Team.
  • Versatile Guard: His ability to play multiple positions and impact the game in various ways made him a valuable player for the Cowboys.

Jalen McDaniels (San Diego State)

Jalen McDaniels, a former forward for San Diego State, brings his high-flying dunks and defensive prowess to the Summer League. McDaniels’s length and athleticism made him a standout in the Mountain West.

Achievements at San Diego State

  • Defensive Anchor: McDaniels was known for his shot-blocking and rebounding, providing a strong defensive presence for the Aztecs.
  • All-Mountain West Second Team: His contributions on both ends of the floor earned him a spot on the All-Mountain West Second Team.

Sam Merrill (Utah State)

Sam Merrill, a sharpshooter from Utah State, is another Mountain West alum making waves in the Summer League. Merrill’s clutch performances and shooting accuracy were hallmarks of his college career.

Achievements at Utah State

  • Mountain West Player of the Year: Merrill’s exceptional play earned him the Mountain West Player of the Year award.
  • NCAA Tournament Heroics: His game-winning shots and leadership helped propel Utah State to NCAA Tournament success.

What to Expect from These Players

The Las Vegas Summer League is a proving ground for young talents aspiring to secure a spot in the NBA. For these former UNM and Mountain West players, it’s an opportunity to showcase their skills on a larger stage and make a case for their professional careers.

Skill Sets and Contributions

  • Tim Williams: Expect Williams to dominate the paint with his scoring and rebounding. His experience and skill set make him a valuable asset for any team looking for a versatile forward.
  • Anthony Mathis: Mathis’s three-point shooting will be a key attraction. Teams in need of a reliable shooter will closely monitor his performance from beyond the arc.
  • Justin James: James’s scoring ability and athleticism will likely stand out. His versatility allows him to play multiple positions, making him an intriguing prospect.
  • Jalen McDaniels: McDaniels’s defensive capabilities and athleticism will be on full display. His shot-blocking and rebounding will be crucial for any team needing a defensive anchor.
  • Sam Merrill: Merrill’s shooting and clutch performances will be a highlight. His ability to make critical shots under pressure is a valuable trait for any team.

Potential Impact

These players have the potential to make significant impacts not only in the Summer League but also in the NBA. Their performances can lead to training camp invites, two-way contracts, or even full-time roster spots. The Summer League serves as a platform for them to demonstrate their growth and readiness for the next level.

Conclusion

So, which former UNM and Mountain West players are in the Las Vegas Summer League? We’ve highlighted some of the top talents from UNM and the Mountain West Conference who are looking to make their mark. From Tim Williams’s versatile play to Anthony Mathis’s sharpshooting, these players bring a wealth of talent and potential. As they take the court in Las Vegas, fans and scouts alike will be watching closely, eager to see how these former collegiate stars perform on the professional stage.

The Las Vegas Summer League is not just a showcase of emerging talent but also a testament to the strong basketball programs at UNM and across the Mountain West Conference. As these players continue to grow and develop, they carry the legacy of their alma maters with them, inspiring future generations of basketball stars.

By lita