3. Keon Ellis
Keon Ellis, a 23-year-old guard, is entering his second season in the NBA after going undrafted in 2022. The Sacramento Kings recently signed him to a two-way contract, as they believe he is worth keeping on the roster.
The 6’5″ guard was the most impressive defender for the Kings in the California Classic Summer League games, as he came into the league as a defensive specialist.
While Keon Ellis has been impressive on defense, his offense has been inconsistent. Ellis is an aggressive player on both sides of the ball and has shown flashes of elite two-way play in the G League last season averaging 16.8 points and 1.6 steals per game on impressive 51/44/78 shooting splits.
If Keon Ellis can have the same impact in the Summer League as he did for the Stockton Kings, he could be the breakout player needed for this young squad. Keon Ellis could become the go-to guy as Sacramento heads to Las Vegas.
Keon Ellis is already trying to mold himself into the leader of this young Summer League team, as he has said (via @SacramentoKings | Twitter):
"“[I’m] really trying to point guys in the right direction… and be a leader.”"
With Keegan Murray having to adjust to being an off-the-court leader, Sacramento needs someone to step up and be a leader on the court. Keon Ellis is expected to step up as a player and a leader in Las Vegas.
3 Biggest standouts at 2023 California Classic Summer League
The 2023 NBA California Classic Summer League has concluded, as there was a wonderful amount of young talent on display during this 6-game slate.