NBA 2K26 Summer League: Hawks Defeat Grizzlies, Stay Unbeaten
Asa Newell Shines as Hawks Edge Grizzlies in summer League Thriller
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Atlanta rookie Asa Newell put on an impressive all-around performance, stuffing the stat sheet with 14 points, 8 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks to help the Hawks secure a hard-fought 92-88 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies in a thrilling NBA2K26 Summer League matchup. The game, held at Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas, was a testament to the competitive spirit of both young squads, with the Hawks ultimately prevailing thanks to a balanced offensive attack and a strong showing from their second unit.
Hawks’ Second Unit and Paint Dominance Seal the Win
The Hawks’ victory was built on a foundation of crisp shooting and the impactful contributions of their reserves. From the opening tip, the game was a tight affair, with neither team able to establish a significant lead. Atlanta managed to eke out a slim 48-46 advantage by halftime, having outscored Memphis by just a single point in each of the first two quarters.
The third quarter saw the Hawks begin to pull away, outscoring the Grizzlies 27-19 to build a more comfortable cushion. While Memphis mounted a late charge in the final period, outscoring Atlanta 23-17, the Hawks had done enough to hold on for the win. Key to their success was their dominance in the paint, where they outscored the Grizzlies 44-38, and the sheer productivity of their bench, which outpaced Memphis’ second unit 43-31.
Newell’s Versatility on Full Display
While Jack McVeigh led the Hawks with a game-high 20 points, the performance of rookie Asa Newell was a major storyline. The first-round pick showcased his all-around game, contributing 14 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. His versatility and impact on both ends of the floor were evident throughout the contest, signaling a promising future for the young forward.
Kobe Bufkin also chipped in with a solid 14 points and 2 assists, adding 6 rebounds to his tally. Kobe johnson rounded out the Hawks’ double-digit scorers with 12 points, complemented by 4 rebounds and 2 assists.
grizzlies’ Young Talent Shows Promise Despite Loss
Despite the defeat, the Memphis Grizzlies displayed flashes of brilliance, led by rookie second-round pick Javon Small. Small was a catalyst for the Grizzlies’ offense, pacing the team with 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists. Cam Spencer also had a strong outing, contributing 16 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, and a steal.
GG Jackson added 13 points and 4 rebounds, along with 2 blocks, showcasing his potential as a scoring threat. Tyler Burton was another shining spot for Memphis, finishing with 12 points and 3 rebounds. While the Grizzlies fought hard until the end, they couldn’t overcome the Hawks’ balanced attack and crucial second-half surge.
The NBA2K26 Summer League continues to provide a platform for these emerging talents to hone their skills and make their case for future roles on their respective NBA rosters. Asa Newell’s impressive performance is a clear indicator of his potential to be a significant contributor for the Atlanta Hawks.