Subscribe
Follow Us
The Golden State Warriors‘ installment of the NBA summer league has been a showcase for their two lottery draft picks, Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody. However, they’re not the only draft picks being monitored by the Warriors' front office. Rookie Justinian Jessup was drafted in the second round by the Dubs in the 2020 draft. In 2021, he officially made his NBA debut after playing a season in the National Basketball League in Australia.
In an exclusive interview with ClutchPoints, Jessup explained that he thought he would go undrafted. So, he signed a deal with the NBL in June of 2020. The NBA draft didn't take place until November due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Jessup had to play out his contract in Australia before joining the Warriors. Now he’s here, and it’s time to perform.
The NBL is where Lamelo Ball and R.J. Hampton played before coming to the NBA. It is one of the more credible leagues in the world.
“It was a really physical league. Just the way it’s officiated they let a lot of stuff go and I think that’s going to be beneficial moving forward, even in summer league. Playing in the NBL helped me with that. They play more physically, so that’s probably the most significant thing, basketball-wise,” Jessup told ClutchPoints.
While making the team is an uphill battle, Jessup shared that he didn’t feel any extra pressure to perform well in Summer League. He plans to play his game and let his actions speak for him. Jessup is this close to making his NBA dream come true.
“It means a lot just from a career standpoint, not just now but also going forward and personally in my journey,” Jessup continued. “It means a lot to anybody who makes an NBA roster, but it would be really special and a good starting place. A good next step in moving forward.”
Progression is what’s most important in the NBA. Each year players work on their crafts to become a better version of themselves. If the Warriors see an improved Jessup, it could land him a roster spot. There are a ton of scenarios that could factor into Jessup earning a roster spot.
In summer league play, Jessup is averaging 10.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.0 steal per game. Those are decent numbers playing alongside first-rounders Kuminga and Moody.
Jessup has a few more summer league games left, which leaves the rookie a little more time to make his mark. Playing in the NBA is every basketball players' goal and Jessup is one step away from it.
