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6 Grizzlies that shined during 2023 NBA Summer League

By Hunter Givens

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - JULY 5: Kenneth Lofton Jr., #6 of the Memphis Grizzlies pushes the ball up the court against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half of their NBA Summer League game July 5, 2023 at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.(Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, UT - JULY 5: Kenneth Lofton Jr., #6 of the Memphis Grizzlies pushes the ball up the court against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half of their NBA Summer League game July 5, 2023 at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.(Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images) /
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Vince Williams Jr. of the Memphis Grizzlies battles for a loose ball. (Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images)
Vince Williams Jr. of the Memphis Grizzlies battles for a loose ball. (Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images) /

2. Vince Williams Jr.

Arguably the most consistent player on the Grizzlies Summer League roster this year was Vince Williams Jr., who tied with Jake LaRavia for a team-high 18.5 points per game through the two outings he played, while also averaging 8.0 rebounds and a steal as well.

Williams made the most of the opportunities given to him on offense, averaging these aforementioned scoring numbers despite only taking 10.5 shots per game while converting on 57.1 percent of his attempts from the field and a scorching 53.3 percent from deep on 7.5 attempts per game.

His performance on offense was accompanied by a great defensive effort, where he showed off a high motor and hustle at the point-of-attack, as well as great instincts as a help-side defender.

While his performance was not perfect, specifically regarding several mental errors and turnovers in the game against the 76ers, his performance raised several eyebrows and convinced many that he should at the very least be in the conversation when it comes to the Grizzlies’ plans at the wing rotation.

3. Jacob Gilyard

A late addition to the Grizzlies roster last season as a two-way player, Jacob Gilyard took the reigns as the lead guard for the Grizzlies’ Summer League team and helped set the table for the offense, leading the entire SLC Summer League with 6.5 assists per game to go along with 8.0 points and 5.0 steals.

In an environment like Summer League, good guard play is essential to see the full potential of the players on the team unlocked, regardless of position. Gilyard’s patience within the offensive system and court-vision helped several on the roster get the opportunity to shine, and, in doing so, Gilyard shined himself.

Clutch threes and a seven-steal performance will do that as well.

His size will always be an issue, and he will be prone to mismatches, but overall Gilyard has overcome his size to prove himself as a positive asset through the SLC Summer League games.

4. G.G. Jackson

The Grizzlies’ lone selection in the 2023 NBA Draft, G.G. Jackson was one of the more intriguing prospects on the Summer League roster, as the former five-star recruit’s talent was overshadowed by a poor freshman season at South Carolina and reportedly rough pre-draft process, leading to his fall into the draft’s second round.

Jackson’s talent was able to shine through in spurts during Summer League, as he put up 13.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and a block per game over his three appearances. His 47/47/80 shooting splits were certainly a cause for optimism, as were his efforts on the defensive end and on the boards.

High-level shot-creating is a greatly coveted skill in the NBA, and Jackson was able to showcase the potential to develop that ability with his dribble moves, creative finishes, and a consistent-looking jump shot.

While his size and effort on defense are a plus, Jackson is still getting used to playing team defense at NBA-level speeds, missing rotations at several junctions.

Jackson also has plenty of work to do in regard to his passing and working within the flow of an offense.

The 18-year-old is certainly still acclimating to the speed of the pro game, but the initial outlook is promising.

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