NBA D-League Showcase in Full Swing

The NBA D-League Showcase is turning out to be quite a success already as dreams are coming true in Boise, Idaho. This year the national media, NBA General Managers and executives, and even a good amount of international teams are out in full force scouting for talent at the event. Boston’s Danny Ainge, Denver’s Mark Warkentein, Dallas’ Donnie Nelson are among the 65-70 NBA personnel credentialed at the showcase. Representatives from teams in Italy and Spain among others are also present. New York City native Sundiata Gaines became the fourth D-League player to be called up to play in the NBA this season after an offer from the Utah Jazz on Tuesday to a 10-day contract pending results from Wednesday’s physical.  Other D-Leaguers that have been impressive thus far in hopes of catching a team’s attention are former Rice standout Morris Almond (31 points and 8 rebounds in day 1), former East Carolina guard Frank Robinson, former St. Mary’s forward Diamon Simpson, and former Kansas guard Billy Thomas, among many others.

Already this season, Mike Harris of the Rio Grande Vipers, Anthony Tolliver of the Idaho Stampede, and Chris Hunter of the Fort Wayne Mad Ants received call-ups from the Rockets, Trail Balzers and Warriors respectively (although Tolliver is curently back with the Stapede). DraftExpress has a breakdown of all the action from day one and two. The D-League’s official site has video reaction from Gaines call-up by the Jazz, as well as extensive coverage on the event and prospects to keep as close eye on.