As an undrafted free agent, Marques Bolden needs to quickly prove his worth in order to secure a spot in the NBA. And in his first professional action, Bolden made his case to stay with the Cleveland Cavaliers long-term.
On the first day of the Salt Lake City Summer League, Bolden stole the show, notching 10 points, eight rebounds and three assists on a perfect 5-for-5 night from the field. The 6-foot-11 center was especially active on the defensive end, with three steals and two blocks in Cleveland's 97-89 loss to the San Antonio Spurs Monday night.
Bolden's two blocks were no cheapies—the former top recruit denied 2019 first-rounder Luka Samanic's first quarter dunk attempt and sent 2018 first-rounder Lonnie Walker IV's layup into the stands.
Not known for his passing abilities while at Duke—the Desoto, Texas native totaled just 35 assists in three years in college—Bolden had a couple nice looks Monday, including a pretty dime off an offensive rebound.
Bolden will have two more opportunities to show off his NBA potential in Utah, as the Cavaliers' summer squad will take on the Utah Jazz and Memphis Grizzlies Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, respectively.
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