Celtics Summer League
While the Boston Celtics focus on securing contracts for last season’s championship roster, Anton Watson, the team’s second-round (54th overall) selection from this year’s NBA draft, remains unperturbed. Watson, who spent five seasons with the Gonzaga Bulldogs, seized the opportunity to impress during the Summer League and now awaits a two-way contract from the Celtics.
“I think we’re gonna figure that out probably sometime this week,” Watson said Monday, per CLNS Media. “But yeah, those conversations will definitely come.”
Reflecting on his Summer League experience, Watson added, “I felt good overall. The whole Summer League just kind of seeing how it feels and playing at this level of pace, the strength you gotta have and just felt good overall. I felt like I played good.”
Playing alongside other roster hopefuls, Watson made five Summer League appearances for the Celtics, averaging 11.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and one block in 24.4 minutes per game. He also shot an impressive 51.1% from the field, 35% from 3-point range, and 85.7% from the free-throw line, culminating in a 15-point performance during Monday night’s 103-98 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers.
Watson showcased his athleticism and defensive prowess, giving opponents a hard time on both ends of the floor. His versatile skill set, drawing comparisons to veteran Al Horford, could potentially earn him NBA minutes this upcoming season, especially if Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla looks to inject some creativity into the lineup.
With his sights set on securing his place with the Celtics, Watson remains focused and optimistic about his future. As the Celtics finalize their roster, Watson’s impressive Summer League showing has undoubtedly positioned him as a valuable asset for the team moving forward.
