​Former Washington Huskies star forward Hannes Steinbach did not have his best showing for the Charlotte Hornets in an 87-75 loss to the Boston Celtics during NBA Summer League action. The No. 14 overall pick from the June draft displayed an all-around game over 23 minutes, finishing with 8 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists. Yet he also racked up 5 turnovers and 5 fouls, and he ended the night with a plus/minus rating of -11 in the defeat.
Despite the hiccup, Steinbach’s performance offered a glimpse of his potential as he continues to acclimate to the NBA level. Hornets guard Liam McNeeley, reflecting on Steinbach’s debut, highlighted his rebounding prowess. “That boy can rebound,” McNeeley said. “He got so many offensive rebounds and touched so many long rebounds and stuff… he just makes the game easier. He gives us extra possessions.” The comment underscored Steinbach’s ability to influence the game through hustle and clocking in extra opportunities for his teammates, even when his shooting and ball-handling were still a work in progress.
Steinbach wasn’t alone in contributing for the Hornets in that game, as another former Husky, guard Terrell Brown Jr., also took the floor. Brown Jr. made his Summer League debut with the Hornets, appearing for eight minutes. While he did not record a made field goal in his first outing, he contributed with four assists and two rebounds, signaling his playmaking potential and readiness to impact the rotation as he gains familiarity with the system and his role.
The Hornets now set their sights on their next matchup, scheduled for Wednesday, July 15, at 4:30 p.m. PT, when they will face the Milwaukee Bucks in what should be another telling showcase of Charlotte’s young talent and how Steinbach, Brown Jr., and the rest of the roster adjust to the high pace and physicality of Summer League competition. This report reflects a broader narrative about Steinbach’s early NBA journey—one where he shows flashes of value in areas like rebounding, ball pressure, and decision-making, even as he works through the rhythm and flow of the professional level.
Originally reported by Huskies Wire, the focus remains on Hannes Steinbach’s early path in the NBA and how fellow former Huskies teammates on the Hornets are contributing as they navigate the transition from college basketball to professional summer league play. The takeaway is that Steinbach’s speed bump is a natural part of the learning curve, and his teammates already appreciate the extra possessions he can produce and the energy he brings on the glass, while Brown Jr.’s development adds another layer to Charlotte’s growing pool of young talent.