The Illinois standout proves his NBA readiness with a stellar Summer League debut, leaving fans and scouts in awe
Terrence Shannon Jr. was a name whispered in gymnasiums and shouted from rooftops as one of the most NBA-ready prospects in the 2024 NBA Draft. The former Illinois star didn’t just meet those expectations in his NBA debut; he shattered them, sending shockwaves through the Summer League.
Under the bright lights of Las Vegas, Shannon poured in a game-high 25 points on 9-for-14 shooting, leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to an 81-74 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. His stat line read like a seasoned pro’s: three rebounds, two blocks, a steal, and six-for-eight from the free-throw line in 28 minutes. Even his three turnovers seemed like minor blemishes on an otherwise spotless performance.
The No. 27pick from last month’s draft made an immediate impact, starting with a thunderous left-handed fastbreak dunk over Yves Missi, the No. 21 pick and a top shot blocker. The dunk, an and-one finish, set the tone for the rest of the game. Moments later, Shannon swatted away a shot, forcing a shot-clock violation, and then drained a corner three-pointer off a Rob Dillingham assist. The crowd, a mix of scouts, fans, and hopefuls, watched in awe as Shannon showcased his athleticism with more dunks, including one off his own steal.
In the second half, Shannon continued his aerial assault with another left-handed fastbreak dunk, adding a block and a smooth left-handed floater. By the fourth quarter, he wasn’t just dunking; he was hitting mid-range jumpers, sinking free throws, and driving layups, all while helping the Timberwolves seal the win.
It’s no shock that Shannon, at 24, dominated his younger competition. As a two-time All-Big Ten First Team selection and the NCAA’s No. 3 leading scorer last season, Shannon was a proven commodity. Yet, the real head-scratcher is how this talent slipped all the way to the Timberwolves at No. 27, a team already eyeing an NBA Finals
run.
Finch praises Shannon’s potential: A glimpse of a bright future
Timberwolves coach Chris Finch couldn’t have been more impressed, telling ESPN, “He is physically ready. We love his downhill ability, physical offensive player, hits first, gets to the free throw line. We’ve been really, really impressed with him so far in the training camp leading up to this and his start is a good one.”
Indeed, one game does not make a career, but Shannon’s debut offered a tantalizing glimpse of his potential. Unlike many Summer League hopefuls forcing their game, Shannon played within himself. He took open jumpers, pushed the ball in transition, and bullied his way to the rim with a confidence that belied his rookie status. His defense was equally impressive, helping stifle the Pelicans’ backcourt and contributing to a dismal shooting night for Jordan Hawkins, Izaiah Brockington, and Antonio Reeves.
