NBA Summer League 2017: John Collins named to All-NBA Summer League First Team

Atlanta Hawks rookie big man John Collins has been named to the All-NBA Summer League First Team, per a release from the NBA earlier tonight. Collins averaged 15.4 points and 9.2 rebounds across five games for the Summer Hawks, delighting fans with his athleticism and hard work across all facets of the game.

More than just a low-post scorer, Collins stepped out and made the sole three-pointer he attempted and got out on the fast break, producing highlight after highlight, dunking on anyone and everyone in his way.

Joining Collins on the first team is Summer League MVP Lonzo Ball of the Los Angeles Lakers, Josh Jackson of the Phoenix Suns, Dennis Smith Jr. of the Dallas Mavericks, and Caleb Swanigan of the Portland Trail Blazers. Collins is the second-lowest draft pick of the bunch, with Swanigan coming in seven picks behind him in the 2017 draft.

After five strong performances in his first NBA action, it seems inevitable that Collins will push supposed starter Ersan Ilyasova for minutes at some point in his rookie season. The future continues to be bright for Atlanta as Collins will join youngsters Taurean Prince and DeAndre’ Bembry as the Hawks rebuild.

Stay tuned.