Jacob Gilyard’s NBA journey has been defined by persistence, determination, and a relentless work ethic. Don’t let this five-foot-nine point guard fool you. He can hoop and is worthy of an NBA deal in the aftermath of not being extended a qualifying offer by the Brooklyn Nets on his two-way contract. Though, the Nets did invite Gilyard to Las Vegas to play with their Summer League team.
Jacob Gilyard Deserves an NBA Deal
Brian Lewis of The New York Post reported on July 19th that Gilyard was no longer with the Nets’ Summer League team. He also speculated that he may have impressed other teams with the free agent guard’s strong play in Las Vegas – including a 37.5 3PT% and 3.3 steals per game. However, Gilyard has yet to sign a deal, as the 2024-25 season is on the horizon.
Point guard Jacob Gilyard is no longer with the #Nets at Las Vegas Summer League. His high-energy ballhawking – seven steals in one game against the #Knicks – may have impressed other teams. #NBA
— Brian Lewis (@NYPost_Lewis) July 19, 2024
Gilyard should stand out for teams as a low-risk, high-reward option for those who need backcourt depth. His time with Brooklyn may have been cut short, but his potential as a disruptive defender and steady playmaker remains untapped. He deserves an opportunity. The NBA is a place for players like Gilyard, who are gritty competitors and make their mark through hustle, intelligence, and team play.
Gilyard Has Opportunities Elsewhere
Gilyard has interest elsewhere if he doesn’t ink an NBA deal. Sources tell me that the guard has garnered interest from overseas teams. He has also had some NBA interest, although it’s worrisome there has yet to be pen to paper. Therefore, a change in geography is an option. However, a player with Gilyard’s skills should get an NBA deal. If a team doesn’t sign him sooner or later, they’ll regret it.
Why Gilyard Deserves an NBA Opportunity
With the Grizzlies in 2023-24, Gilyard averaged 4.7 PTS and 3.5 AST in 17.7 minutes per game. He was shooting the ball on 42/43/100 splits. It seems that NBA teams are overlooking him, which may hinder his receiving an offer. Gilyard was pivotal to the Grizzlies and suited up for the maximum 50 games a two-way player could play. Due to numerous injuries and suspensions, he was forced to play more often than most two-way players, and he did not disappoint.
Additionally, sources tell me that the Grizzlies haven’t garnered interest in Gilyard despite making a positive impression on the organization during his tenure.
ESPN Sources: The Memphis Grizzlies are signing guard Jordan Goodwin on a two-way deal. Memphis will waive two-way guard Jacob Gilyard, who had nearly reached his limit of NBA days after making a positive impression in his Grizzlies’ stay.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 24, 2024
The Last Word
Ultimately, Gilyard deserves another NBA deal. Given his track record of overcoming the odds, he’ll likely make the most out of an opportunity if a deal comes to fruition. Although, he can always go overseas to flourish and showcase his skills in front of NBA personnel.
