Warriors Dominate Lakers in California Classic Summer League

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ICARO Media Group
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08/07/2024 19h42

The Golden State Warriors continued their impressive run in the California Classic summer league with a commanding 92-68 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers at Chase Center on Sunday. It marked their second consecutive blowout win, as they defeated the Miami Heat by 39 points the previous day.

Ethan Thompson led the charge for the Warriors, pouring in 22 points and grabbing a game-high 11 rebounds. Daeqwon Plowden contributed 18 points, while Mantas Rubštavičius added 12 to help seal the victory. Lakers' first-round draft pick Dalton Knecht was the highest scorer for his team with 12 points.

The Warriors showcased their defensive prowess under the guidance of summer league head coach Anthony Vereen, who also serves as a player-development coach for the Golden State team. Vereen's emphasis on energy and solid defensive principles paid off, as they held the Lakers to just 25 percent shooting from the field and 11.8 percent from beyond the arc. This came after an equally impressive defensive performance against the Miami Heat, limiting them to 28.9 percent shooting overall.

Both Thompson and Plowden shone in the game, displaying their two-way skills and making a case for consideration in the team's future plans. Thompson, a 25-year-old guard, excelled as the Warriors' leading scorer for the second consecutive game and showcased his versatility by also leading the team in rebounds. Plowden, a hyperactive wing, contributed 14 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks, highlighting his athleticism and shooting ability.

Meanwhile, former New York Knicks' ninth overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, Kevin Knox II, made his debut with the Warriors, hoping to rejuvenate his career. Knox had a decent performance, scoring seven points on 3-of-10 shooting, including 1-of-5 from deep, while also contributing five assists and four rebounds in 19 minutes of play.

The Warriors' dominance in the summer league is encouraging for their fans, as they display strong teamwork, defensive intensity, and individual prowess. As the season progresses, it will be intriguing to see if any of the standout performers, such as Thompson and Plowden, earn a roster spot on the team. The California Classic summer league continues to provide a platform for young talents to make their case for a spot in the NBA.

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