Anthony Lawrence needs to show he can play G in NBA

Miami basketball alum Anthony Lawrence needs to show he can play guard in the NBA Summer League after being signed to the Cleveland Cavaliers’ Summer League Roster.

Anthony Lawrence played out of position at power forward for the majority of his last two seasons in the Miami basketball program. Lawrence recorded career highs averaging 12.6 points, 6.7 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game and by recording, 51 made three-point field goals in 2019-20.

Anthony Lawrence was an undersized 6’7 stretch four with the Hurricanes the last two seasons. Amp started 81 out of the 97 games he played in with Miami his last three seasons. Lawrence was a key contributor to Miami’s Sweet 16 team during his freshman season in 2016.

Lawrence averaged 4.3 PPG, 1.9 RPG and shot 42.9 percent on three-point attempts in 12 minutes per game. Lawrence’s freshman season propelled him to become one of Miami’s most versatile players over his final three seasons. His all-around game and strong defense are qualities that will help Lawrence at the next level.

Cleveland was one of six teams that the undrafted Lawrence worked out for. Lawrence was brought in to work out for Cleveland twice, the Orlando Magic, Detroit Pistons, Memphis Grizzlies, the Heat and New Orleans Pelicans. Lawrence is encouraged with the opportunity ahead with Cleveland.

"“I did really good at their workouts so they said they would like me for Summer League, I had a couple other ones in the Heat and Detroit, they said they were interested in me for Summer League, but really the Cavs was the best opportunity and they really wanted me the most so that’s what I went with.”"

In an interview with Christopher Stock of Inside the U, Lawrence additionally discussed how excited he is at the opportunity with Cleveland, his defensive play, his need to adjust to playing more on the perimeter and his all-around game.

"“I am very excited because this is one of my goals. I knew I wasn’t going to get drafted so I was just waiting on a Summer League team. This is my next opportunity. I want to show my guard skills and playing the four.I played the three during college so I think I can show playing the guard spot at the workouts. I feel real comfortable. I’m shooting the ball well, ballhandling is going well so I feel real comfortable at the guard position and at the 4 too. It really doesn’t matter.”"

Several other Miami basketball alums are expected to participate in NBA Summer leagues commencing in July. Dewan Hernandez was a second-round draft choice of the NBA Champion Toronto Raptors, second-year players Lonnie Walker of San Antonio and Bruce Brown of Detroit will likely play this summer.

Ebuka Izundu and Zach Johnson who just completed their final seasons of college basketball are awaiting a chance to get a chance with an NBA Summer League team. Lawrence and the Cavaliers will play in Salt Lake City July 1-3 and Las Vegas July 5-15. The Cavs tip-off play in SLC against the Spurs July 1.