Well, that was better than the debut, for sure. The Cavaliers secured their first win of the NBA Summer League on Saturday, holding off the Milwaukee Bucks 93-83 after building a sizable lead early and finishing the job this time.
Nae’Qwan Tomlin once again led the way. After erupting for 30 points in the opener, the 6-foot-10 forward followed it up with 22 more on near-flawless efficiency. Through two games, Tomlin is shooting a combined 21-of-28 from the field and has shown little trouble getting to the basket.
Tomlin is currently on a two-way contract, but if this continues, that likely won’t last long. His ability to handle the ball at his size makes him a unique scoring threat, and his relentless energy was evident as he consistently pressured the Bucks at the rim.
His next step is on the defensive end, where improvement could elevate him from promising to polished. Grabbing 13 rebounds, including eight on the defensive end, is a step in that direction.
Jaylon Tyson, filling in once again for the injured Craig Porter Jr., couldn’t quite replicate the 12-assist performance he turned in against Indiana. He finished with just three assists and struggled from the field, going 3-of-13.
Even so, he managed to make his presence felt. Tyson earned 10 free throws and knocked down nine of them, ending the day with 18 points. His physical drives helped the Cavs keep momentum even when shots weren’t falling.
Meanwhile, rookie guard Tyrese Proctor showed more comfort in his second Summer League appearance. He handed out four assists, committed only one turnover, and looked confident attacking off closeouts and navigating dribble handoffs. He still isn’t beating defenders off the bounce with ease, but again, this was encouraging. Proctor went 3-of-8 from beyond the arc and finished with 12 points.
Milwaukee’s starting lineup featured two Akron products — Chris Livingston (21 points, nine rebounds, five assists) and Pete Nance (12 points, four rebounds). Both are likely to find work somewhere this season, probably in the G League to start.
Cleveland returns to summer action Sunday at 7:30 p.m. vs. the Miami Heat.
BOX SCORE | Cavs 93, Bucks 83
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