Kuminga, G League Ignite shine in debut to edge Santa Cruz Warriors
The G League Ignite put forth a memorable performance in their first-ever game Wednesday.
Veteran guard Jarrett Jack scored 23 points in 18 minutes off the bench while 18-year-old Jonathan Kuminga poured in 19 in his professional debut to help the Ignite beat the Santa Cruz Warriors 109-104.
Kuminga, who's considered one of the top prospects in the upcoming Class of 2021, also contributed four assists, two rebounds, and two blocks in a team-high 33 minutes.
Fellow top prospects Jalen Green, Daishen Nix, and Isaiah Todd also made their professional debuts. Green and Nix combined for 23 points while Todd converted one field goal in 17 minutes.
The Ignite held a double-digit lead for much of the contest before the Warriors came within striking distance thanks to a 29-17 fourth-quarter advantage. Jack drained a mid-range jumper to extend the Ignite's lead to 107-102 and seal the game with under one minute remaining.
Jordan Poole's 22 points led the Warriors. Jeremy Lin contributed 18 points and five assists while Axel Toupane recorded a 14-point, 10-rebound double-double in the loss. Santa Cruz shot 39% overall.
The Ignite, who shot 52% from the floor, return to action Friday against the Oklahoma City Blue.