‘The kid is very special’: Keegan Murray impresses in Kings’ debut

Cody Taylor
·2 min read
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Keegan Murray was viewed as one of the most NBA-ready prospects entering the draft, and the Sacramento Kings rookie showed why in his debut game in the California Classic from San Francisco.

Murray produced 26 points and eight rebounds in a 86-68 victory over the Golden State Warriors. He went 10-of-14 from the field, including 4-of-5 from 3-point range, in 28 minutes of work as the Kings played their first of two games in the event.

Overall, Murray felt comfortable throughout his debut game.

I saw the first shot go in and that kinda sparked my confidence a little bit. Obviously, that helps a lot, especially in your first professional action. That first shot went in and I felt comfortable the rest of the way.

The game marked the first action for Murray after the Kings made him the fourth pick out of Iowa on June 23. He didn’t experience any butterflies taking the court and was just more excited to play in his first meaningful game in three months.

Murray drew high marks from Kings associate head coach Jordi Fernandez for his ability to process the game and make quick decisions that often resulted in the right play being made.

It seems like every time he does the right thing. He doesn’t force it. He makes it look simple. When you watch a professional athlete that whatever he does looks simple, that is usually a really good professional athlete. … Overall, I think the kid is very special. What we saw in college, I’m seeing right now. If I could bet, I’m going to say he is going to be a very good NBA player.

Of course, the results of summer league are often taken with a grain of salt but the team certainly has to be encouraged by the way Murray performed in his first game. He looked to pick up things quickly and that translated to a near double-double effort.

The early display by Murray certainly bodes well for the future as the Kings look to add a key piece to their roster. With the Kings heading off to Las Vegas next, there will be plenty of opportunities to see Murray in action and begin the transition to the NBA.

Sacramento plays the Miami Heat next at 5 p.m. EDT on Sunday.

This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!

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Story originally appeared on Rookie Wire