Former Missouri players continued their NBA Summer League schedules Monday, with Caleb Grill and Sean East II turning in encouraging performances while John Tonje experienced his first difficult outing.
The day began with the Boston Celtics falling 102-90 to the Atlanta Hawks.
Tonje made his third consecutive start, playing 20 minutes and finishing with five points on 2-of-8 shooting. He connected on just 1 of 6 attempts from 3-point range, grabbed two rebounds and recorded one steal.
After opening Summer League with back-to-back efficient scoring performances, Monday marked Tonje’s first off night. He tried to create offense throughout the game, forcing several contested shots that had not been part of his game during the first two contests. Even with the tough shooting performance, Boston continued to trust him with a starting role and consistent minutes.
The game also featured Caleb Grill’s most extensive action of the Summer League. Grill looked comfortable from the moment he touched the floor, finishing with seven points while making all of his shot attempts. He connected on both of his field goal attempts, one of which was from 3-point range, and converted his lone free throw. Grill also added a block as his quick release and confident shooting stroke looked as natural as ever.
The next former Tiger scheduled to play was Jevon Porter, but the Memphis Grizzlies forward did not enter the game in a 96-88 loss to the Dallas Mavericks. Porter was listed as a coach’s decision.
Sean East followed with his best opportunity of Summer League as the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Miami Heat 90-73.
East logged his Summer League-high 15 minutes and scored five points on 2-of-5 shooting, including a made 3-pointer. He also dished out two assists.
The increased playing time brought out a different version of East. Rather than settling for perimeter looks, he attacked the basket with greater purpose, driving into the lane with confidence and looking to create his own offense. His willingness to stay aggressive helped produce his most complete performance of the week.
The final Missouri alumnus scheduled to play was Tamar Bates, who did not see the floor in the Utah Jazz’s 80-63 victory over the Chicago Bulls.
Tuesday’s scheduleT
Tuesday’s slate begins with Porter and the Memphis Grizzlies taking on the Golden State Warriors at 6 p.m. Central.
The other former Tigers in action will be Mark Mitchell and Trevon Brazile and the Denver Nuggets, who face the Oklahoma City Thunder at 8 p.m. Central.