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Former Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Brandon Clarke was named the 2019 NBA Summer League MVP. Former Summer League MVPs include Josh Hart (2018), Lonzo Ball (2017), Damian Lillard (2012), John Wall (2010), Blake Griffin (2009), and Nate Robinson (2007).
The @memgrizz's @brandonclarke23 named 2019 @NBASummerLeague MVP! #NBASummer pic.twitter.com/fEIisTCZ8t
— NBA (@NBA) July 15, 2019
Clarke helped power the Memphis Grizzlies into the championship game, slamming home the go-ahead points last night.
Through five games, he has averaged 14.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game in 21.4 minutes.
Clarke was the No. 21 pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, and a lot of pundits bemoaned how far he fell on draft night. His effort in the Summer League showcased why everyone is so high on Clarke. Although he is a bit undersized for his position at the NBA and he has yet to demonstrate he can consistently hit an outside shot, Clarke’s elite-level athleticism in the post makes him one of the most dangerous players in transition offense.
Clarke led the Summer League with a 34.5 PER, a slight dip from his junior year number of 39.3.
He has one more game left in the Summer League as the Grizzlies take on the Minnesota Timberwolves for the championship tonight, at 6:00 pm PT, on ESPN2.