Despite injury, Kobe Brown showcases his potential for Clippers in Summer League win

The Clippers defeated the Houston Rockets 95-92 in an NBA Summer League game on Friday night at Cox Pavilion. Kobe Brown, aiming to secure a rotational role with the Clippers this season, suffered a right ankle injury in the third quarter after getting tangled with a Rockets defender who fell on his ankle. He left the game and did not return; the team diagnosed the injury as a right ankle contusion.

Brown had started the game strongly, scoring 10 points in the first quarter (4-for-5 from the field, including 2-for-2 from three-point range) and showcasing his abilities, including a lob dunk after running the length of the court. He finished with 14 points, four rebounds, and four assists in 20 minutes before exiting.

Clippers Summer League coach Jerry Castleberry praised Brown's performance, emphasizing his defense, decision-making, ability to draw defenders in the paint, and scoring effectively against mismatches. Regarding the injury, Castleberry stated it was "good" and "fine," calling his removal from the game precautionary and expressing confidence Brown would be okay.

Brown, the 30th overall pick in the 2023 draft entering his third season, is slated to earn $2.65 million this season with a $4.7 million qualifying offer for next season. The Clippers added Jordan Miller to the Summer League roster after waiving him earlier, utilizing an available roster spot.