It’s time for the big stage. The Sixers’ summer team kicked off their first game in the Vegas tournament, defeating Detroit Pistons 94-81 Saturday night.
Ricky Counsell IV led the way with 24 points, hitting 7-of-17 from the field. Keefe Aluma continued his impressive form, finishing with 19 points, eight rebounds, one steal and a block. Jeff Doitten Jr. finished with 18 points, while Jared McCain finished with 11 points, hitting 4-of-14 from the field and one-of-six three-pointers.
Here are some ideas at the bell.
Although McCain had some trouble shooting, his shooting was by no means bad. And while his struggle to create a difference between the two teams can sometimes seem a concern, his skill and strength somewhat mitigate that concern.
His decision-making has been one of the most impressive aspects of his play this summer. He always seems to make the right call on defense in pick-and-rolls. The Sixers’ offense looks pretty hopeless without either McCain or Doughton taking the initiative.
Great bucket from Jared McCain here.
The Sixers open the play on Double Drag and then move to the middle of the court, McCain reads the defense and passes the ball to a screen and throws a great fake pass for a clean chance. pic.twitter.com/CD9250nst3
— Dan Olinger (@dan_olinger) July 14, 2024
While Counsell led the team in scoring, the biggest contributor in the second half was Aluma. He had another efficient night, scoring 19 points on 8-of-10 shooting, including two impressive three-point plays. He knocked down one behind the arc after a pass from Doughton, then hit a rebound, earning a point in the process moments later.
Philadelphia has gotten strong performances from its bigs all summer. Bona filled the stat sheet again, hitting 4-of-4 from the field to go with eight points and six rebounds. He was excellent defensively again, too, as his five blocks indicate. It was great to see Bona and Aluma go out and get a shot, too.
It’s strange to call this a quiet game for Counsell, as he was the scorer, but he finished with a sensational double in the transfer window. He and Doughton have been a constant presence in this team. They look like professionals.