So far this year, the Philadelphia 76ers have dealt with a plethora of injuries that have contributed to their ugly start, particularly at the center position. With Joel Embiid still out with a sinus fracture injury, there is one name to watch to help fill the void at the center and power forward positions.
Pete Nance joined the 76ers on a two way contract in early December and so far he has looked good at the G League level. In two games with the Blue Coats, Nance has averaged 12.5 points per game on 50 percent shooting to go along with nine rebounds and three assists as a starter for Delaware. Nance has also shown an impressive shot blocking ability, with five blocks through two contests.
Beyond Andre Drummond, the Sixers are currently lacking in the frontcourt with their next tallest players being Paul George and Guerschon Yabusele both standing at 6’8”. Nance is 6’10” and gives the 76ers more flexibility and range at both the center and forward positions.
The 76ers should turn to Pete Nance to help shore up their depth at the big man position
Before signing with Philly, Nance spent the 2023 season and parts of 2024 with the Cleveland Cavaliers where he made an impact both in the G League and the NBA. In 24 games with the Cleveland Charge, the former North Carolina star averaged 14.3 points and 1.5 blocks per game. While his efficiency has taken a dip in limited action so far this year, he has taken a more active role as a scorer posting 171 total points in 10 games. Additionally, Nance has the same amount of blocks this year that he did in all of last season (21).
In addition, Nance comes from a family of established NBA players. His father, Larry Nance Sr. played for 14 seasons from 1981 to 1994 for the Phoenix Suns and Cleveland Cavaliers, and was named a three time All-Star, and made three All-NBA defensive teams during his career.
Meanwhile, his brother Larry Nance Jr. is currently in his tenth season and has averaged 7.7 points per game in 532 contests with five teams, most notably the Los Angeles Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers.
With Joel Embiid’s status going forward up in the area, the Philadelphia 76ers now have another additional option in the lineup in Pete Nance. If he can continue to play well at the G League level, expect a call in the future from Daryl Morey and company as they look to get back on track the rest of the way.