M. basketball: Ariza shines, former UCLA players show off skills in Long Beach
LONG BEACH — At the Long Beach Summer Pro League this year, it seemed like it was in with the old and the new. At least for UCLA alumni. The two week-long summer basketball league exhibition featured many names and faces that have called Westwood home at some point in their playing careers. Most of the spotlight was thrust on Trevor Ariza, who after only one year with the Bruins decided to make the jump to the NBA. The 43rd overall pick, by the New York Knicks, Ariza excelled in the SPL, averaging 14.0 points per game, 6.7 rebounds per game, and 1.7 steals per game. While coming into the league his perimeter and free-throw shooting were among the question marks, the 19-year old Ariza already showed progress in both area, connecting on 51 percent from the field, while knocking down over 75 percent of his attempts from the charity stripe. T.J. Cummings, who along with Ariza entered the NBA draft, saw limited playing time, tallying two points and an assist in the NBA Stars’ loss to the Clippers. The 6-foot-9 forward was undrafted, and will look to play for a spot on an NBA roster in the coming months.
JUST LIKE OLD TIMES: A couple of old pals and UCLA teammates also made appearances in the SPL. Earl Watson and Baron Davis each brought some star power to the league. Watson, playing for the SFX team, averaged 26.5 points, 13.5 assists, and 3.5 steals per game, while shooting 51 percent from the field. He served as an important role player for the Memphis Grizzlies this year, playing a career high 20.6 minutes per contest. Davis, the New Orleans Hornets’ slashing point guard, averaged 15.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.7 steals in the three games. An unexpected but welcome addition to the league, Davis had 37 points and 12 assists on Saturday, helping the Life Sports’ team to the SPL championship. Because of realignment the NBA season commences this October, Davis will help the Hornets adjust to the new rigors of the Western Conference.
EMERGING REED: Travis Reed, a contributor off the bench during his two seasons as a Bruin during the 1998 and 1999 campaigns, impressed some scouts in Long Beach. The former Bruin posted averages of 19.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 3.0 steals a game. Reed showcased his improved play at the platform provided by the SPL, but where his basketball career may take him is still uncertain.
LAVIN LIKES TO WATCH: In attendance at the Pyramid in Long Beach was former UCLA coach Steve Lavin. Though rumored to be interested in coaching again, Lavin, still an ESPN analyst, was seen in the stands observing many of his former players.
LIKE FATHER LIKE SON: While Kareem Abdul-Jabbar served as the assistant coach for the Knicks’ summer league team, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Jr. was trying to follow in his father’s footsteps, playing for a spot on an NBA roster on the Play-2-Win team.
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