Trail Blazers sign Colorado’s Jabari Walker to standard NBA contract
No. 57 overall pick Jabari Walker from Colorado on Wednesday signed a standard NBA contract with the Portland Trail Blazers, the team announced.
Walker, the son of 10-year veteran Samaki Walker, was named to the All-Pac-12 first team after averaging 14.6 points, 9.4 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 33 games last season as a sophomore. He ranked 10th among all Division I players in double-doubles with 17.
The 19-year-old has emerged as a standout with the Trail Blazers in the Las Vegas Summer League. He is averaging 13 points, 8.3 rebounds and one assist in three games on 68.2% shooting from the field, including 37.5% from 3-point range.
Walker has impressed in a small sample size in summer league. He is currently leading all draftees in points per possession (1.39) and rebound percentage (22.3). He has also defended at a high level and is among the leaders in plus-minus.
He was thought to be in contention for a two-way contract, but instead earned a standard deal with the Trail Blazers after just three games in Las Vegas. With the signing, Walker claimed the 15th and final spot on the roster.
Portland plays next on Thursday at 9:30 p.m. EDT.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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