Sports
Memphis Tigers basketball players in NBA Summer League, including David Jones, Kendric Davis – Commercial Appeal
The NBA season ended less than a month ago, but it’s already time to turn the page to the 2024-2025 season.
That means the NBA Summer League, which starts with smaller tournaments in Salt Lake City and Sacramento before all 30 teams convene in Las Vegas starting on Friday. Summer league is a chance for fans to see rookies and young players in action for the first time, but it’s also an opportunity for players who aren’t in the NBA to make a name for themselves in front of scouts and executives.
It’s no surprise there are plenty of former Memphis players taking part. Here’s a rundown of all the former Tigers who will be in action during summer league.
Memphis’ star last season, Jones could’ve returned for another year with the Tigers but ultimately decided to keep his name in the NBA Draft.
He wasn’t picked, but he signed a two-way contract with the 76ers shortly after the draft. He’ll suit up for their summer league team.
Tomlin was a midseason addition to the Tigers in 2023-2024 but became a critical player for coach Penny Hardaway. He was invited to the NBA Combine after a strong performance in the G League Elite Camp but also went undrafted.
Walton transferred to Memphis before the 2023-24 season after a productive season at Wichita State and was a starter for most of the season. He averaged 8.3 points per game during his season in Memphis.
Jeffries finished his collegiate career at Mississippi State after spending two seasons with the Tigers. The Olive Branch native signed with the Grizzlies for summer league.
Ellis played two seasons for Memphis before transferring to Southern Cal for the final two years of his collegiate career. Like Tomlin, he earned an invite to the combine after his performance at the G League Elite camp but also went undrafted. He signed with the Kings shortly thereafter.
One of the most beloved former Tigers in recent memory, Davis spent last season with the Santa Cruz Warriors of the G League. He’ll be with the Blazers during summer league.
Bates played for Memphis during the 2021-2022 season, but transferred to Eastern Michigan and then declared for the draft after one season with the Eagles. He was picked by the Cavaliers in the second round of the 2023 NBA Draft and has been with the organization since then.
Minott was drafted No. 45 overall by Minnesota in the 2022 draft after one season with the Tigers. He has played sparingly during his career with the Timberwolves but is expected to be a focal point on this summer league team.
Reach sports writer Jonah Dylan at jonah.dylan@commercialappeal.com or on X @thejonahdylan.
