10
Loading video...
By Anne Erickson
0
Share
Newsweek is a Trust Project member
See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Tre Donaldson might be giving the Miami Heat something they weren't expecting: a player who's way better than expected.
The undrafted guard from the University of Miami had a breakout performance when the Miami's Summer League team needed it most, helping the Heat erase a late deficit and pull away for a double-digit win over Detroit. After trailing 72-66 heading into the fourth quarter, Miami found its answer, and Donaldson was right in the middle of it. These games can jumpstart young careers.
The 6-foot-3 guard scored 20 points in the victory, with 13 of those coming during a huge fourth quarter where the Heat had 35 points. When the game was in question, Donaldson stepped forward and looked comfortable taking on a bigger role.
Read More on NBA
More sports news: Titans’ Cam Ward Has High Trade Value Despite Rocky Start
That kind of response is exactly what young players are trying to show during these opportunities. It's one thing to put up numbers when everything is going well. It's another thing to make an impact when a game is slipping away and a team needs someone to change the momentum.
...
Donaldson also showed he wasn't just looking for his own shot. He led Miami in both rebounds and assists, finishing with eight boards and 10 dimes. For a guard his size, that all-around production stands out and gives coaches something to work with.
The path he's taking makes the performance even more interesting. As an undrafted player, Donaldson doesn't have the built-in security that comes with being a high draft pick. Every single chance to make an impression counts.
Summer League can be a little unpredictable, and one big night doesn't guarantee a roster spot. But performances like this are how players start making teams take a closer look.
More sports news: Brooks Barnhizer is a Player to Watch for the Thunder
For Miami, the hope is that Donaldson's fourth-quarter surge wasn't just a moment. It was a sign of a player who might have been a real steal.
View 0 Comments
Submit Correction
View Editorial & AI Guidelines