Edwards, Wagner Play in Tonight's Nike Hoops Summit
Two future Kentucky Wildcats are putting their talents to the test against the best in the world. Tonight DJ Wagner and Justin Edwards will represent UK as members of Team USA in the Nike Hoops Summit. The action at the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon tips off at 10 pm EST on NBATV.
This marks the 25th anniversary of the men’s game that pits the best 19-year-old Americans against a squad of international players. There have been 35 players from the Nike Hoop Summit that have played in the NBA All-Star Game, including five former Wildcats: Anthony Davis, DeMarcus Cousins, Julius Randle, John Wall and Karl-Anthony Towns.
This is the second time the BBN has had the chance to see Wagner and Edwards in all-star games this offseason. Each player shined in the McDonald’s All-American Game. Edwards scored 11 points, knocking down 5-of-9 field goals, including a three-pointer that was created by Wagner. Edwards also had five boards and two steals.
Wagner stole the show in Houston. After struggling to score in the first half, the future Kentucky point guard went to work, leading the charge for a comeback victory that included the go-ahead bucket in transition. He knocked down 3-of-7 three-pointers to finish with 19 points, three assists, two rebounds, two steals and two blocks. Wagner was named MVP of the McDonald’s All-American Game.
Wagner is ranked third and Edwards is second in the On3 Industry Rankings — an equally weighted ranking system among the top four recruiting services. Each player earned player of the year honors in their respective states, Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Wagner was the best of the bunch in Houston, but this week Edwards turned heads in practice. We’ll see later tonight if either future Kentucky Wildcat will shine in the bright spotlight at the Nike Hoop Summit.
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