"Lee Hyun-jung to Catch NBA Officials' Attention" 22-Point Storm Performance Draws U.S. Local Focus... Dream Stage in Sight

*This content was translated by AI.

Lee Hyun-jung (26), the "ace" of the South Korean national basketball team, delivered explosive performances at the NBA Summer League, taking another step toward his dream stage.

On the 16th (Korean time), Lee played 22 minutes and 27 seconds in a 2026 NBA Summer League match between the Utah Jazz and the San Antonio Spurs held at the Pavilion in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. He recorded 22 points, five rebounds, two steals, and one block, including four three-pointers. The San Antonio Spurs defeated Utah 94-82, led by Lee's outstanding performance.

After leading Japan's B.League to a championship last season, Lee is continuing his challenge for NBA entry while wearing the San Antonio jersey this summer.

Lee delivered the most impressive performance of the Summer League that day. He broke through 20 points for the first time and hit four three-pointers, unleashing a fierce scoring attack. He also secured four offensive rebounds, showing no hesitation in doing dirty work. His performance was more than enough to impress NBA officials with his value.

In fact, U.S. local media also highlighted Lee's performance. On that day, CBS Sports introduced his performance under the headline "San Antonio's Lee Hyun-jung scores 22 points off the bench."

The outlet praised him, stating, "Lee's 22 points were his personal high in scoring," and added, "He has appeared off the bench in both of his recent two Summer League games, recording double-digit points each time."

It also mentioned Lee's future possibility of challenging for the NBA. CBS Sports noted, "Young South Korean player Lee Hyun-jung is competing to receive an invitation to training camp," and highly evaluated that "such performances will undoubtedly catch the attention of NBA officials."

NBA.com also reported, "South Korean Lee Hyun-jung, who has been active in overseas professional leagues, came off the Spurs' bench and injected tremendous energy. He scored 22 points, including a team-high four three-pointers, and recorded five rebounds."

Fans who visited the arena also reacted enthusiastically to Lee's performance. Cheers calling out Lee's name erupted from the stands.

In an interview with local broadcasters after the game, Lee expressed gratitude, saying, "I heard many fans in the arena calling my name. It gave me great strength."

Furthermore, despite his explosive performance, Lee was not satisfied. Even after scoring 22 points, he first recalled missed shots. He reflected, "My shooting feel was good throughout the game, but I regretted missing all three three-pointers I attempted in the fourth quarter."

This marks his third challenge at the NBA Summer League. Previously, Lee participated in two Summer Leagues, but did not achieve the desired results. However, this year's atmosphere is different. Even before the Summer League began, San Antonio showed active interest in him.

According to the San Antonio Express-News in the U.S., Cory Williamson, the coach leading the Summer League for San Antonio, expressed confidence in Lee, stating, "Everyone knows he can shoot," and added, "It's fine if he attempts seven or eight three-pointers per game."

Teammate Jacobi Gillespie also said, "He showed his shooting during mini-camp. We definitely trust him."

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*This content was translated by AI.