Terrence Shannon Jr. Dominant in Timberwolves' NBA Summer League Win

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Terrence Shannon Jr. does not belong in the NBA Summer League. To borrow a phrase from Chicago Bulls color commentator and NBA vet Stacey King describing prime Derrick Rose: “Too big, too fast, too strong.”
The 6-foot-6, 216-pound Shannon arguably embodies that phrase even more so than the former MVP Rose. Shannon’s physical prowess is simply unmatched in Las Vegas – and that was clear throughout his 24-point, seven-rebound, three-assist performance Saturday night.
Shannon, a former All-American at Illinois, led his Minnesota Timberwolves squad to their second win in as many outings of Summer League ball – this time a 94-83 triumph over the Denver Nuggets.
Although Shannon wasn’t exactly a pinnacle of efficiency from the field (8-for-19), he was impressive – especially considering his high usage rate – in avoiding a single turnover on the game. And although Shannon did much of his work from beyond the arc Saturday (five threes), he still managed to add a highlight-reel jam to cap off his night late in the fourth quarter.
Terrence Shannon Jr. with 24 PTS, 5 triples and a MASSIVE poster in the @Timberwolves win 🔥🐺 pic.twitter.com/SINppxrCBf
— NBA TV (@NBATV) July 13, 2025
Through two games, Shannon has been perhaps the best player in Vegas. Thus far, for players who have suited up in at least two Summer League contests, his per-game scoring average of 22.0 is third-best. And he is the only player in the league currently averaging more than 20 points, six rebounds and six assists.
Shannon and his Timberwolves enjoy two days off before taking on the Detroit Pistons (1-0) on Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. CT.
More From Illinois on Sports Illustrated:
Illinois Basketball: Assembling the Best Starting Five of the Brad Underwood Era
How Former Illini Will Riley Fared in His NBA Summer League Debut
Illinois Basketball Offers Maximo Adams, a Top-50 Prospect From Class of 2026

Primarily covers Illinois football and basketball, and Kansas basketball, with an emphasis on analysis, features and recruiting. Langendorf, a third-generation University of Illinois alum, has been watching Illini basketball and football for as long as he can remember. An advertising student and journalism devotee, he has been writing for On SI since October 2024. He can be followed and reached on X @jglangendorf.
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