4 Biggest takeaways as 76ers tally crucial loss in Summer League action

Adem Bona remains active, exciting, and wild

Stats: 23 minutes, 6 points, 4 rebounds, 5 blocks, 3 turnovers

Bona’s defensive impact is felt on almost every possession. For better or for worse, Bona will be present. The good elements involve countless blocks and contests that discourage opponents from entering the paint. The bad elements involve Bona overhelping or leaving his feet resulting in offensive rebounds or fouls.

There is no containing his energy, but he did reel it in demonstrating improved discipline as the game progressed. Maybe it was the hard fall he experienced after elevating to block a shot attempt early in the game or perhaps it was a sign of growth. He hit the floor hard during his first game as well giving me pause when considering his outlook of long-term health.

Either way, as the game progressed, his explosive leaps were timely and more calculated. Bona has parked himself in the paint as the 76ers have played zone defense for the majority of their first two games. Bona sometimes forgets to add a quarter to the parking meter though since he’s been called for multiple defensive violations, so he’ll need to adjust to NBA rules. 

Bona’s defensive impact was on display during the final minute of the game. In a critical possession with the 76ers down by two, Bona single handedly disrupted the Grizzlies attempts. 

He slid into position to deter a drive attempt and then kept his hands active to cause a deflection. After a scramble for a loose ball, the Grizzlies thought they had a layup opportunity until Bona rotated to block the attempt. With the shot clock running down, Bona closed out on a three-point attempt and slid his feet to contest a mid-range jumper. Wow!

Following that possession, he tied the game up converting two free throws. His offense came exclusively from the free throw line as he made all six of his attempts. He committed turnovers while playing outside of his strengths, but offense is an ancillary piece to what Bona provides.

Don’t leave the screen when he checks into the game, because he is bound to provide at least one “ohh my” moment while he’s on the floor.