San Antonio Spurs rookie Malaki Branham on Friday debuted with the Austin Spurs in the NBA G League and reached double figures on assignment.
Branham, the 20th pick, produced 12 points and two rebounds in nearly 16 minutes of work in the 117-107 loss on the road to the Lakeland Magic. He finished 6-of-9 from the field as the Spurs dropped to 1-2 on the season.
The Spurs assigned Branham to Austin in order to get extended playing time and continue his development. He shot the ball very well in the contest and looked to play with confidence throughout his time on the court.
Branham has logged four appearances with San Antonio, earning the start in two contests. He is averaging six points, 2.3 rebounds and two assists on 28.6% shooting from the field. He had his best game on Nov. 2 with 13 points and three rebounds versus Toronto.
He will likely split his time this season between San Antonio and Austin as the 19-year-old begins his transition to the NBA. He represents a big part of the future for the team and has shown in spurts why he was taken in the first round.
Austin plays Lakeland once again on Saturday.
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