The Sixer Sense
Fansided

Philadelphia 76ers Epic NBA Summer League

By Bret Stuter

Jul 12, 2016; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Ben Simmons (25) shoots during an NBA Summer League game against the Golden State Warriors at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 12, 2016; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Ben Simmons (25) shoots during an NBA Summer League game against the Golden State Warriors at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 25, 2017; Tempe, AZ, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) dribbles the ball against the Arizona State Sun Devils during the second half at Wells-Fargo Arena. The Sun Devils won 86-75. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /

Unselfish Play

On one hand, he showcased his stuff on a less than good Washington Huskies Basketball team that truly was not built to help him either on offense or defense. On the other hand, as he ramps up for play this season you can expect to see his true value flash in summer league. In conclusion, he is a natural magnet to team defenses. But in doing so, he does not hesitate to pass out to an open man.

As a matter of fact, he will face many of the same players he faced in the PAC-12 in summer league. Lonzo Ball, Lauri Markannen, T.J. Leaf, Kyle Kuzma, Derrick White, Ivan Rabb, Jordan bell, Tyler Dorsey, Dillon Brooks, Ike Anigbogu, Kadeem Allen, and Jabari Bird are all PAC-12 opponents now in the NBA.

Stands Above All

Fultz did not land atop an NBA Draft by vote or popularity contest. He landed there on his dedication to become the best basketball player. And unlike some NCAA prospects, he understans situations dictate shooting, passing, and defending.

He works to improve all aspects of his game. He does not have a quirky shot, he is not just a “shooter” nor is he exclusively a defender. Just how good  can he be? There is not scientific method to project his upside. He is the best in class with below average coaching and a losing team. Now he is surrounded by talent and has one of the best coaches for developing talent in the NBA.

We will understand his upside potential this summer, or flashes of it.  And that alone will be worth the price of admission.