NC State Basketball in NBA: DJ Burns Makes Case for More Minutes
In hopes of transforming an NBA 2K25 Summer League stay with the Cleveland Cavaliers into a two-way contract or better for next season, first-year pro and legendary NC State basketball forward DJ Burns is doing his best to put on a show across his limited minutes in Las Vegas.
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He started with a bang during his brief first run off the bench in Cleveland's opener, a 106-79 loss to the Magic on Friday. In those three minutes of action, Burns showcased his bucket-getting magic in the paint right away, dropping two quick scores before checking out of the contest and going scoreless across his nine minutes in the second half.
DJ Burns, the former North Carolina State star, is with the Cavaliers for Summer League. He's trimmed down. Came off the bench and gave the Cavs a board and a bucket on this one pic.twitter.com/orgzu1dg5g
— Mike Vorkunov (@MikeVorkunov) July 12, 2024
The 23-year-old ACC Tournament MVP from Rock Hill, S.C., undrafted in June despite his brilliant performances in March to help power the NC State basketball program to its first Final Four in 41 years, followed up his altogether encouraging Summer League debut with a highly productive outing on Sunday.
DJ Burns going to work 😤 @beastboyburns pic.twitter.com/b9aSQzdsiW
— Overtime (@overtime) July 14, 2024
Across only 15 minutes of playing time in a 112-81 win over the Milwaukee Bucks, the 6-foot-9, 275-pound Burns tallied seven points, five boards, two assists, two steals, and one block as the squad's backup power forward. He shot 3-for-5 from the field and 1-for-2 at the charity stripe.
DJ Burns and the Cavaliers (1-1) next face the Golden State Warriors (2-0) at 10 p.m. ET Wednesday (NBA TV).
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MATT GILES
Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of NC State Wolfpack on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining NC State Wolfpack on SI in 2024, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.