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MIAMI, Fla. – In the NBA Las Vegas Summer League, it’s an opportunity for several overlooked prospects to defy the odds and carve out a spot on a roster. Although the challenge is difficult, it could be the start of a remarkable underdog story.
Former Miami Hurricanes Tre Donaldson (Miami Heat) and Ernest Udeh Jr. (Cleveland Cavaliers) are currently signed to two-way contracts. It might not be the main roster, but it’s very close. Meanwhile, Malik Reneau has the tougher route to entering the league.
The 23-year-old forward signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Orlando Magic following the NBA Draft. He was guaranteed little other than an opportunity. Despite being available, Reneau hardly played in the Summer League. However, in Saturday’s final game against the Boston Celtics, the Miami native saw extended time on the court.
In 18 minutes, Reneau led the Magic with 19 points on 85.7 percent shooting, three rebounds, a block, and a steal. He primarily played at center, but managed to stretch the floor, going three-for-three from behind the arc. It’s a long shot, but the Magic still have a standard roster spot available.
“I’m a versatile [power forward],” he said. “I can shoot the ball, drive, post up – I play inside and out. I’m a good defender, still showcasing that at this moment. Being able to guard in the perimeter and block shots – defend bigger guys than me. That’s how I feel like I am.”
Reneau proved to be a reliable scoring option on the Hurricanes as a senior. He averaged 18.9 points on 54 percent shooting, 6.5 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.1 steals in 35 games (all starts). Reneau was the go-to option offensively and the only senior to earn All-Atlantic Coast Conference First Team honors.
Given the 6-9 and 233-pound frame, the undrafted prospect could be an intriguing development project for any NBA franchise. He can handle the ball and create a shot for himself, even in crowded spaces. Although it’s unlikely for Reneau to be a go-to option on any team, being a reliable role player is another way to find longevity in the league.
There are over 20 two-way slots available, according to Spotrac. Despite the Magic not having any openings, another organization could take a chance on Reneau and the potential he carries. The league has numerous undrafted success stories and this could be another in the making.
Join the Community! Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news! It's completely free to join, simply by clicking the yellow button at the top of the homepage. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members. Download the free Roundtable APP and stay even more connected!
Anthony Aguirre is the Miami Hurricanes beat writer for Roundtable Sports. Contact info: [email protected] | 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports
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Former Miami Hurricanes Tre Donaldson (Miami Heat) and Ernest Udeh Jr. (Cleveland Cavaliers) are currently signed to two-way contracts. It might not be the main roster, but it’s very close. Meanwhile, Malik Reneau has the tougher route to entering the league.
The 23-year-old forward signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Orlando Magic following the NBA Draft. He was guaranteed little other than an opportunity. Despite being available, Reneau hardly played in the Summer League. However, in Saturday’s final game against the Boston Celtics, the Miami native saw extended time on the court.
In 18 minutes, Reneau led the Magic with 19 points on 85.7 percent shooting, three rebounds, a block, and a steal. He primarily played at center, but managed to stretch the floor, going three-for-three from behind the arc. It’s a long shot, but the Magic still have a standard roster spot available.
“I’m a versatile [power forward],” he said. “I can shoot the ball, drive, post up – I play inside and out. I’m a good defender, still showcasing that at this moment. Being able to guard in the perimeter and block shots – defend bigger guys than me. That’s how I feel like I am.”
Reneau proved to be a reliable scoring option on the Hurricanes as a senior. He averaged 18.9 points on 54 percent shooting, 6.5 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.1 steals in 35 games (all starts). Reneau was the go-to option offensively and the only senior to earn All-Atlantic Coast Conference First Team honors.
Given the 6-9 and 233-pound frame, the undrafted prospect could be an intriguing development project for any NBA franchise. He can handle the ball and create a shot for himself, even in crowded spaces. Although it’s unlikely for Reneau to be a go-to option on any team, being a reliable role player is another way to find longevity in the league.
There are over 20 two-way slots available, according to Spotrac. Despite the Magic not having any openings, another organization could take a chance on Reneau and the potential he carries. The league has numerous undrafted success stories and this could be another in the making.
Join the Community! Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news! It's completely free to join, simply by clicking the yellow button at the top of the homepage. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members. Download the free Roundtable APP and stay even more connected!
Anthony Aguirre is the Miami Hurricanes beat writer for Roundtable Sports. Contact info: [email protected] | 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports
Continue reading...
