Chicago Bulls win 2016 NBA Summer League

It was a fitting climax to the most watched NBA Summer League ever; the Chicago Bulls edged the Minnesota Timberwolves 84-82 in overtime. Through the years, the Las Vegas Summer League was held mostly as an opportunity to highlight the NBA’s young talent as well as a chance to build up interest for the upcoming season. This time however, the Summer League was more effective than normal in drawing attention. Many fans trooped to watch the games and cheer for the future NBA stars.

The Bulls seized the initiative in the early going, racking up an 18-10 lead at the end of the first quarter. Minnesota exploded with their own 22-0 run and surged ahead with their own double-digit lead to close out the first half. After the break, the Bulls replied with a 19-2 rally to tie up the game as both clubs were set to grind it out in the final period. With five seconds remaining in regulation, Summer League MVP Tyus Jones drilled a three-pointer to give Minnesota the lead. Chicago Bulls’ rookie Denzel Valentine threw up a “Hail Mary” three and sent the game into overtime. Valentine continued his strong play in the extra period, sinking the go-ahead basket that sealed the win for the Bulls. Chicago was undoubtedly the most successful team in the tournament, capping off a 7-0 win run.

Bulls’ guard Jerian Grant was named the Finals MVP. He scored 24 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. Bobby Portis dropped 26 points and 10 boards of his own, along with four steals. Valentine finished the game with seven points, eight rebounds and three assists. Despite his low-ish scoring performance, it was Valentine’s clutch shooting that was most memorable and impactful.

Minnesota’s Tyus Jones ended the night with 27 points and 10 assists. Adreian Payne was a beast on the boards, collecting a double-double with 22 points and 16 rebounds.

Now that the Summer League fun is over and in the books, the teams now get ready for training camp and the 2016-17 pre-season.