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UNC Basketball: Harrison Ingram Sees Game-High Minutes in NBA Debut

Former one-year UNC basketball starting forward Harrison Ingram's first game in a Spurs jersey included a start and first pro bucket.

Matt Giles

UNC basketball forward Harrison Ingram
UNC basketball forward Harrison Ingram / Hannah Pajewski-USA TODAY Sports
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It wasn't Harrison Ingram's best shooting night: 1-for-6 from the field, 0-for-2 beyond the arc, and 1-for-2 at the line. But aside from first-time jitters and a 97-65 loss to the Charlotte Hornets at the California Classic Summer League in Sacramento's Golden 1 Center, the UNC basketball product's Saturday night debut in a San Antonio Spurs jersey was relatively promising for a rookie second-round draft pick.

After drawing a starting nod at power forward, the 21-year-old Ingram finished with three points, seven rebounds, one assist, zero turnovers, and zero fouls across his game-high 26 minutes.

If nothing else, the considerable playing time suggests that the Spurs, who also landed veteran NBA Tar Heel forward Harrison Barnes via the trade route on Saturday night, were eager to get a look at Ingram in a game environment as a pro.

Meanwhile, the Hornets' Summer League roster includes a UNC basketball alum in second-year pro Leaky Black, hoping to build on his rookie year in Charlotte on a two-way contract after going undrafted last summer following his five-year campaign in Chapel Hill. He played 19 minutes as a starter in the win over the Spurs, tallying five points, five boards, one assist, and a steal.

Ingram and the Spurs next face the Sacramento Kings at 10 p.m. ET Sunday (ESPN2).

First, Black and the Hornets square off against Team China at 8 p.m. (also on ESPN2).

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining UNC on SI in 2023, 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.

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