:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68798232/usa_today_15444018.0.jpg)
The G-League’s bubble season kicks off today and there’s a lot of intrigue that comes with this abbreviated season. Majority of the games can be watched on ESPN+.
Here’s three reasons to watch:
Jeremy Lin is back
Perhaps the most notable player to play in the G-League bubble is former Rockets guard Jeremy Lin, who declined multiple lucrative offers in China to play in the bubble for one more crack at playing in the NBA.
Jeremy Lin (@JLin7) passed on significant offers in China to pursue NBA return through G League which begins Wednesday, says in @Stadium sitdown: “People think I’m crazy. There are definitely thoughts and fears I’ll always have to fight.” Also: Lessons from Linsanity. pic.twitter.com/eJ5djUxfn7
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 8, 2021
Lin will suit up for the Santa Cruz Warriors and will look to audition for all NBA teams to see if he can latch on with a team following the All-Star Break for the stretch run of the season.
Other former Rockets playing in the bubble include Bobby Brown (G League Ignite), Michael Frazier (Delaware Blue Coats), KJ McDaniels (Greensboro Swarm), Chris Chiozza (Long Island Nets) and Vincent Edwards (Oklahoma City Blue).
Kevin Porter Jr., KJ Martin star for Vipers
KPJ and KJ could see a heavy dose of minutes for the Vipers, the Rockets G-League affiliate. The Rockets drafted Martin in the second round of the NBA Draft back in November and the team traded for Porter Jr. just a few weeks ago after a promising rookie season in Cleveland.
Martin got an opportunity to flash some of his potential with the Rockets earlier this season, but Porter Jr. is getting his first chance to do that in the bubble, in hopes that he can get into a rhythm and contribute for the Rockets down the stretch for this season.
Martin and Porter Jr. will also play alongside two-way guard Brodric Thomas, training camp invitees Trevelin Queen and Kenny Wooten, and former NBA’ers Ray Spalding and Josh Huestis.
G-League Ignite to feature top 2021 NBA Draft prospects
As the NBA Draft process evolves, players are now opting to join the G-League, rather than the NCAA or overseas, to fulfill their one year removed from school.
Some of the top 2021 NBA Draft prospects have teamed up to form Team Ignite, that should be one of the most talented non-NBA rosters ever put together.
Jalen Green and Jonathan Kuminga are projected to go in the Top 10 this year, while Daishen Nix, Kai Sotto and Isaiah Todd could also hear their names called on Draft night this summer.
They’ll be joined by NBA veterans Jarrett Jack, Amir Johnson and former Rocket Bobby Brown to be one of the most exciting teams to watch in the bubble.