Former Washington Huskies star Keion Brooks Jr. got off to a slow start in his NBA Summer League debut as the New Orleans Pelicans fell 81-74 to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Las Vegas.
In just over 21 minutes, the one-time Kentucky transfer went 0 for 5 from the field, including 0 for 2 from three-point range. A lot of the Pelicans offense ran through another former (UConn) Husky, point guard Jordan Hawkins, who New Orleans selected with the No. 14 pick in the 2023 NBA draft.
Hawkins had a team-high 18 points, but it came on an inefficient 6 for 21 from the floor. Brooks still did a good job finding ways to contribute, as he was able to add 4 rebounds, 2 assists, and a block to his total.
Before the Pelicans take the floor again on Sunday night against the Orlando Magic, coach Aaron Miles should be looking for a way to spread the ball around a little more and get some of his other options more involved. Brooks, who averaged 14.6 shots per game last season, is a good option to shoulder a heavier load offensively.
Washington’s other summer league participant, Moses Wood, did not play for the Atlanta Hawks in their 94-88 loss to the Washington Wizards.
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