Michael Foster Jr. and Jaden Hardy each neared double-doubles on Thursday to lead the NBA G League Ignite in a loss to the Agua Caliente Clippers from Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas.
Foster produced 16 points, eight rebounds, three steals, two assists and two blocked shots in 32 minutes of work during the 101-93 loss. Hardy also recorded 16 points, while adding nine rebounds, one assist and one steal in 33 minutes.
The two players led the Ignite during their first nationally-televised appearance of the season on ESPN2. They each showed why they are projected first-round picks next year and continued their strong starts to the season.
Foster had the unique assignment of guarding veteran Serge Ibaka, who is playing with Agua Caliente to knock off some rust following a back injury. Meanwhile, Hardy continued to his ability as a scorer one night after dropping 24 points on the Clippers.
The stated goal of the Ignite is to provide development opportunities for those prospects looking to play professionally. The team focuses more on the development of the players, and not necessarily on the outcome of games as they do not play a full schedule like other teams.
The opportunity to play against other teams in the G League will offer a great avenue to develop their overall games and prepare for the next level. The players also have the chance to compete against each other in practice, something that has been beneficial.
The Ignite return to action on Wednesday vs. the South Bay Lakers. The contest can be streamed on ESPN+ starting at 10 p.m. EST.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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