Heat rookie Kel’el Ware registers 3rd double-double of summer league

Kel’el Ware recorded another double-double on Wednesday to lead the Miami Heat to a victory over the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Ware produced a game-high 24 points, 10 rebounds, three blocked shots and one steal in the 92-79 win at the Thomas & Mack Center. He went 9-of-12 from the field, and 6-of-9 from the free-throw line, and was a plus-22 in 31 minutes.

The 15th pick was once again dominant in the paint and a tremendous lob threat for the team, having capitalized several times in pick-and-roll situations. He also helped protect the paint by blocking shots and altering others on defense.

Ware has emerged as one of the top first-year players this summer, averaging 18 points, 8.4 rebounds, 2.6 blocks and 1.4 assists in five appearances between Sacramento and Las Vegas. He has registered three double-doubles and scored in double figures in each game.

The 7-footer is showcasing himself at a high level and a worthy selection as a first-round pick. The sample size is certainly small against summer league competition, but Ware has had no issues with the increased level of play and has had some dominant stretches.

Ware should have the opportunity to compete for minutes in the rotation next season in the frontcourt behind Bam Adebayo and others. The team looks to have selected yet another player who has the potential to develop into a franchise cornerstone.

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