Antonio Blakeney Breaks Out With Much Needed Performance
Antonio Blakeney exploded for 34 points off the bench on Friday, a performance that could spark even more firepower from him this season.
As he continues to fight his back to the NBA, Antonio Blakeney already boasts some favorable accomplishments. The offensive spark plug averaged 32 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists en route to becoming the 2017-18 NBA G League Rookie of the Year and was named to the All-NBA G League Second Team that season. Through 76 games with the Chicago Bulls from 2017-19, Blakeney averaged 7.5 points. It may not seem like much, but it’s the same kind of success that most players in the G League bubble dream of at the next level.
Now donning a Canton Charge jersey, Blakeney has been hoping to put more of that same firepower on display yet again. It took him a few games to get going, but he finally put together the type of performance many know he’s capable of.
Blakeney exploded for 34 points (three-points off the bubble scoring season-high of 37) and connected on 6 daggers from deep in Friday’s matchup. He found his rhythm early, and it’s worth noting that the 24 year old came off the bench in this one, just like he has in three out of his six contests on the year. It’s safe to say players who can heat up in a hurry off the pine are in high demand, especially as NBA teams look to fill crucial holes amid the twists and turns of this season.
There’s a premium on players of Blakeney’s caliber. Coming into the season, he was regarded as one of the best players in the bubble but that hasn’t stopped him from modestly proving he can provide value in a reserve role. This season, the former Bull is averaging 19.8 points on 53% from the field.
Getting noticed in the NBA G League often comes down to doing the little things, finding your role among other scorers, and being unselfish. At the same time, being in the NBA comes with immense pressure. Blakeney is proving himself to be clutch, unflappable during high-stakes moments. The fact of the matter is, minor league teams do aim to win — Canton trusts Blakeney to help set the tempo and have the ball in his hands when it matters most. There’s certainly value that comes with that level of faith.
Blakeney looked incredibly comfortable on Friday. That 34 point game was the kind of performance he needed, perhaps signaling that he is indeed still someone to keep an eye on as the season continues.