LAS VEGAS — Charles Bassey made a surprise debut for the Boston Celtics’ Summer League team on Friday, delivering an impressive performance in a win over the Memphis Grizzlies. The former San Antonio Spurs center was a late addition to the roster but made an immediate impact, recording a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds off the bench at Cox Pavilion.
On Saturday, Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens explained that Bassey’s participation was a last-minute decision by the player.
“Charles has played a lot of NBA minutes over the last couple of years,” Stevens said. “He made the decision at the last minute to participate… I thought he did a really good job yesterday. He probably was the biggest reason we won the game.”
Bassey, an unrestricted free agent, has reportedly been on Boston’s radar since last offseason. With the team seeking to bolster its frontcourt depth, his performance is particularly notable. Stevens acknowledged the Celtics’ long-standing interest while noting Bassey’s current position.
“I don’t want to speak for him, what his goals might be,” Stevens said. “He’s a guy that’s probably playing for what’s next. I just think he’s a guy we’ve paid attention to from afar for a long time.”
While Boston’s 15-man roster is currently full, the team has the flexibility to offer a training camp contract or make other roster adjustments. Bassey’s opportunity to secure such a spot will likely depend on his continued performance throughout the remainder of Summer League. The 24-year-old’s strong debut suggests he could be a viable option to help strengthen Boston’s frontcourt rotation.
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