Top Summer League Rookie Makes Crucial Career Decision on Monday

McNeeley earned his spot on the list because he put up 22 points, 12 rebounds and six assists in his debut against the Utah Jazz on July 11 to outplay Charlotte’s fellow first-round pick Kon Knueppel. The Hornets went on to win the summer league championship on Sunday, defeating the Kings 83-78. Knueppel was named the title game MVP.

McNeeley's new contract with Nike comes after the Hornets selected him No. 29 overall after one strong season with Dan Hurley’s Huskies.

He averaged 14.5 points, 6 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game to help UConn reach the NCAA Tournament. Meanwhile, Clifford earned ESPN’s top spot for averaging 18.5 points, 6.5 rebounds and 5 assists per game after spending five seasons in college for the Colorado Buffaloes and Colorado State Rams.

On the other hand, Flagg, the former Duke Blue Devil whom Dallas selected No. 1 overall in June’s NBA draft, appeared in two games and scored 32 points against the San Antonio Spurs on July 12. Flagg has potential to join the Mavericks' starting lineup alongside NBA All-Stars Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis. 

McNeeley might be able to join the Hornets’ starting lineup led by LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller if he continues to play well during the summer league.