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Former UNC Basketball Teammates Reuniting in NBA Summer League

The Utah Jazz Summer League roster includes UNC basketball gem Armando Bacot and one-year Tar Heel Walker Kessler.

Matt Giles

UNC basketball center Armando Bacot
UNC basketball center Armando Bacot / Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
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Despite two years of NBA experience under his belt, Walker Kessler is suiting up for the Utah Jazz in July Summer League action once again. He'll be alongside one of his former UNC basketball teammates in first-year pro Armando Bacot, who went undrafted after becoming the Tar Heels' all-time leading rebounder and double-double producer but signed an Exhibit 10 deal with the Jazz on Thursday.

And that's not to mention the Utah Summer League roster's recent star for UNC's archrival in Duke's 7-foot Kyle Filipowski, the No. 32 overall selection at last week's NBA Draft.

Of course, Walker Kessler, now 22 years old, didn't remain a Tar Heel after serving as a backup center to then-sophomore Armando Bacot, now 24, as a freshman in 2020-21. He transferred to Auburn, starred under the Tigers' Bruce Pearl for one season, and then came off the board to the Jazz at No. 22 overall in 2022.

Kessler has played in 138 games, including 62 starts, across his two years in Utah, averaging 8.7 points and 8.0 rebounds per outing.

Presumably, Bacot is hoping to earn a more permanent stay with the Jazz, potentially via a two-way contract for next season.

They'll host the three-day Salt Lake City Summer League, tipping off on Monday, before heading to Las Vegas for the NBA 2K25 Summer League, July 12-22.

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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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