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“Big East alums are off to a solid start in the NBA”

“Big East alums are off to a solid start in the NBA”

The Big East graduates make a strong first impression in NBA preseason games with the former Marquette star Tyler Kolek and former UConn star Stephon Castle both averaged more than 10 points per game. Three of the first 13 college players selected in the 2024 NBA Draft came from the Big East. Castle landed in San Antonio with the fourth overall pick, while his former UConn teammate Donovan Clingan was selected seventh overall by the Portland Trail Blazers. Former Providence guard Devin Carter was the No. 13 pick by the Sacramento Kings. However, he suffered a shoulder injury that will sideline him for several months.

Here’s a look at how the former Big East stars are playing in the early stages of the NBA’s preseason schedule.

“Big East alums are off to a solid start in the NBA”

National champions make their mark early on at the NBA level

UConn had four of them Starter selected in the 2024 NBA Draft to take the lead among Big East alums. They’re still adjusting to life in the NBA.

Castle averaged 11 points on 50% shooting and seven assists in his first two preseason games with the San Antonio Spurs. He also has one of the most memorable dunks in the early stages of the preseason.

Clingan made his preseason debut on Friday. Clingan had seven points, five rebounds, two assists and a blocked shot in Portland’s 101-99 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers.

“I thought he was OK,” Portland head coach Chauncey Billups told the media after the game. “For me, they scored a little too easily down there.”

Also, Tristen Newton In his first two games for the Indiana Pacers, he averaged seven points and five assists. Cam Spencer is recovering from an ankle injury. He has not yet played in the first two preseason games for the Memphis Grizzlies.

“Marquette rookies are among the Big East’s best graduates.”

There were rumors that Kolek could be one of the best players in the draft. Certainly it looks like the Knicks’ second-round pick will provide great value with his draft slot. Kolek makes those who have touted his potential influence look pretty good.

The 6-foot-2 guard from Marquette was on the court late in a close duel with the Charlotte Hornets in the season opener in New York. Kolek scored 11 points on 3-of-5 shooting in the 111-109 win.

Kolek finished with 15 points and five assists in 17 minutes as the Knicks defeated the Washington Wizards on Wednesday. He is pushing to become the primary backup point guard Jalen Brunson.

Oso IghodaroKolek’s former teammate at Marquette, was also selected in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft. Ighodaro had 18 points, 11 rebounds and nine assists as the Suns won their first two preseason games. Friday was more difficult as he missed all five of his shots in a loss to Detroit.

Alexander makes his presence felt

Trey Alexander went undrafted despite averaging 17.6 points, 5.7 rebounds and 4.7 assists as a junior at Creighton last season. He had a quiet start to the season. However, in a loss to the Boston Celtics, Alexander recorded 12 points, four rebounds and five assists in 20 minutes. Alexander joins a talented team from Denver. It remains to be seen how much playing time he will receive at the NBA level during the 2024-25 season. He hopes to give the Nuggets brass something to think about.