Spurs Summer League: Grading every player to log minutes in Game 1

2023 NBA California Classic - San Antonio Spurs v Charlotte Hornets
2023 NBA California Classic - San Antonio Spurs v Charlotte Hornets / Thearon W. Henderson/GettyImages
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Justin Kier

Kier logged 14 minutes in the contest vs. the Charlotte Hornets and, though he did not fill up the stat sheet, he did not make costly mistakes. Finishing the game with two rebounds and four assists, Kier kept the ball moving and often made the correct read in the offense's progression. Facilitating the offense as a cog in the machine of the Spurs' system is not to be taken for granted, as every piece must fit seamlessly for peak performance.

The guard out of Georgia is in his second season and spent last season with the Austin Spurs. He had his moments and the Spurs are hoping he can build off of those highlights. With most of the ball-handling duties belonging to Wesley and the scoring opportunities scarce, there was only so much Kier could put on tape. Being a star in your role can be difficult when trying to find your footing but Kier's steadiness provided a shimmer of hope for his future.

Grade: C

Charles Bediako

Bediako is listed as a 7-foot undrafted center from Canada and he looks every bit of that 7-foot. The expectations for undrafted players are lower, but that did not stop Bediako from making an impression. He was often in the right place at the right time and challenged shots consistently, making it difficult for the opposition to score around the basket. We did not get to see his impressive athleticism on full display, but that was more about the flow of the game and the last thing you want a young player to do is force things. He also had 5 fouls but he's in the right place to work on that.

Despite limited opportunities, Bediako chipped in 5 points while assisting on a bucket and forcing a turnover. Going 3-4 from the free throw line is a nod to his shooting touch but defense and rim running are where Bediako will make the most of his money, and the defense was on full display. You would like to see more rebounds from a 7-footer, and his three left a little more to be desired, but again, with limited opportunities, that is a nitpick. If Bediako continues to make things difficult in the paint, he could find himself a roster spot in a league where offenses are at their peak.

Grade: B