WATCH: Kennedy Chandler steals ball from Jaden Springer to seal Summer League game
A pair of former Tennessee basketball guards took center stage in Salt Lake City when the Memphis Grizzlies took on the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA Summer League, with Kennedy Chandler and Jaden Springer looking to impress both coaching staffs. They delivered with solid performances which resulted in a one-on-one in the final seconds.
Rookie Kennedy Chandler got the best of second-year player Jaden Springer when he stole the ball on the wing, allowing the Grizzlies to dribble out the clock after the 76ers drew up a play believing they would get the final shot.
Chandler finished the game with eight points, four rebounds and four assists, adding four steals and three blocks at just 6-foot tall. Springer also put on a show with 15 points, three rebounds and two assists, adding a block and steal on defense.
Kennedy Chandler agrees to rookie contract
Former Tennessee point guard Kennedy Chandler has also agreed to a four-year deal worth $7.1 million with the Memphis Grizzlies after going No. 38 overall in the 2022 NBA Draft, according to The Athletic’s Shams Charania. He also receives $4.94 million in guaranteed money, the most for any American prospect picked in the second round.
Kennedy Chandler agreed to his rookie contract as he makes his NBA Summer League debut in Salt Lake City against the Philadelphia 76ers. The public announcement came at halftime of the game, which the Grizzlies lead by double digits.
Over 34 games as a freshman under Rick Barnes last season, Chandler started every game while averaging 13.9 points and 4.7 assists on his way to the All-SEC team and subsequent SEC Tournament MVP award. At 6-foot tall, he also averaged 3.2 rebounds and 2.2 steals per game while shooting 46.4 percent from the field and 38.3 percent from the 3-point line.