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Arizona Basketball: Three former Wildcats to play in the 2017 NBA Summer League

By Connor Hope

Jun 27, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls 2017 number one draft choice Lauri Markkanen during a press conference at Advocate Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 27, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls 2017 number one draft choice Lauri Markkanen during a press conference at Advocate Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports /
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Three members of last year’s Arizona Wildcats team are playing in the 2017 NBA Summer League. Who are they and where will they be playing?

The Arizona Wildcats surprised many people last year by winning the Pac-12 over the Oregon Ducks and UCLA Bruins. The excitement, however, was ended when they suffered a disappointing loss to Xavier in the Sweet Sixteen.

Although some top players, including Allonzo Trier and Rawle Alkins, are returning to Arizona, others have made the decision to pursue professional opportunities. Three of these players will be playing in the 2017 NBA Summer League.

Lauri Markkanen, Chicago Bulls

Arizona stretch forward Lauri Markkanen was selected with the Minnesota Timberwolves’ 7th overall pick before being sent to the Bulls. The Bulls seem to be building for the future, as shown by the massive Jimmy Butler trade, and Markkanen appears to be a key piece. The seven-footer was one of the best shooting big men in the country last year, finishing 42.3% from deep. Markkanen will be playing on the Bulls’ Summer League team in Vegas.

Kadeem Allen, Boston Celtics

The Celtics used one of their second round (53rd overall) picks to select Wildcat guard Kadeem Allen. Allen, a fifth year senior, was Arizona’s most efficient three-point shooter and best perimeter defender. At 24.5 years old, Allen won’t have long to develop, so he must prove that he can contribute as a defensive specialist right away. He will have that opportunity when he plays for the Celtics in Vegas and Utah.

Kobi Simmons, Memphis Grizzlies

Kobi Simmons’ decision to enter the draft was a head-scratcher. After playing a significant role for Arizona for the first half of the season, Simmons’ minutes began to decrease after the return of Wildcat star Allonzo Trier. An injury against USC in February all but eliminated Simmons’ minutes, and he averaged a disappointing 6.3 minutes during Arizona’s six postseason games. Simmons went undrafted but was able to sign a Summer League contract to play with the Memphis Grizzlies in Vegas.

Next: UCLA Bruins in the 2017 NBA Summer League

While it is clear that Markkanen is a key part of Chicago’s future plans, the NBA futures of Allen and Simmons are less certain. Kadeem Allen’s age will obviously be a factor, but perimeter defense should earn him a spot on the Celtics’ roster. Simmons immediate future in the NBA is less promising, most likely alternating between the Grizzlies and the G-League. After shooting 29.4% during the postseason last season, Simmons may be better served spending a year or two in Europe.

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