Watch: Sixers' Top Pick Jahlil Okafor Shines In Professional Debut
By Ray Boyd
SALT LAKE CITY, UT (CBS) -- It was a night to remember for Sixers fans. Monday night marked Jahlil Okafor's professional debut as the Sixers faced the Spurs in Summer League action.
The Sixers lost their Summer League opener to the Spurs 74-71, but Okafor shined for the Sixers.
The rookie out of Duke scored 20 points to go along with nine rebounds and two blocked shots in just a notch over 29 minutes.
Okafor got off to a slow start, but found his rhythm in the second half. His ability to score on the block was on full display and he earned and-one opportunities on several occasions.
He also showed an ability to draw double-teams and successfully pass out and find open teammates. He clearly proved that he can move the defense and essentially run the offense from the block.
The Sixers also got a solid contribution from Jerami Grant who chipped in 13 points and six rebounds. Jordan McRae scored 15 points.
Okafor and the Sixers will play in the Utah Jazz Summer League again on Tuesday night and will square off against the Boston Celtics.