Richaun Holmes was off to a perfect start for the Sixers. Now the 37th overall pick in 2015 is out for 6-8 weeks due to a fractured elbow.
In three Utah Summer League performances, Holmes scored 29 points (9.7 PPG), grabbed 14 rebounds (4.7 RPG), and also recorded three blocks and three steals. The Bowling Green product was bringing up the hopes of 76ers fans, and now will have to wait about two months to get back into action.
“He just believes in himself,” said Sixers assistant Billy Lange, who is coaching the summer-league team. “When he steps on the court, he’s not overwhelmed with what’s going on. So I think he’s going to become more comfortable as time goes on.”
Philadelphia selected the 6'8" forward 37th overall at the 2015 NBA Draft a few weeks ago in Brooklyn, New York. Holmes was among a multitude of other Sixers selections, notably Jahlil Okafor.
The Sixers also selected Guillermo 'Willy' Hernangomez, Arturas Gudaitis, and J.P. Tokoto, all second round picks.
Jahlil Okafor and Jerami Grant have currently led the team to a 1-2 start in the Utah Summer League. Comes the Las Vegas Summer League, the real test will be given to Philadelphia, as they will work without Holmes and against a larger playing field.
“Be active. Rebound. Play defense,” said Holmes of his expected role. “And just do the little things – hustle plays – to help my team win. I just want to do whatever I can do in the moment.”
Philly finished last season with the league's third-worst record, and did manage to select Okafor with the third selection, the expected position for the team in the lottery. Okafor looks to be ready to bring some success offensively to this Sixers re-building organization, and now it is all about building around him.