CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) - Tristan Enaruna had a decorated career at Cleveland State, ranking top 15 in scoring, rebounding, assists, blocked shots, and field goal percentage.
He went undrafted but got picked up by the Celtics and has spent the last year in the G League.
Now, Enaruna has returned to Cleveland and joins the Charge, fighting for a chance to make the Cavs roster.
“You know it’s a trusting place,” said Enaruna. “Being a Cleveland State guy, graduated from Cleveland State, played probably two of my best college seasons there. Met a lot of great people. Cleveland definitely has a place in my heart, so it feels good being back.”
While it’s nice to be around his old stomping grounds, Enaruna knows that there are only a few weeks to make a good impression on the Cavaliers’ organization.
“I think it’s important to go out there and show how I am to the best of my ability as a basketball player. Show what I can do and how I’ve developed over the last couple of years,” said Enaruna. “But also have fun, you know, it’s a special time. Fun time, so try to enjoy it as well.”
With a couple of practices under his belt, Summer League head coach Omar Cook is impressed with what he sees in his young forward.
“I like his size.” said Cook. “He’s legit 6’8” — 6’9”. He stretches the floor, he plays the right way, so I like that about him.”
“I love to play on both sides of the play. I don’t think I need the ball to be effective. I think I’m good at creating extra possessions, putting my teammates in positions where my teammates can find me,” said Enaruna. “Being a great cutter, shooting from outside, and spacing the floor. Something that has always been a strength has been attacking the rim and getting to the paint and spots and making plays.”
The Charge will open up Summer League play tomorrow in Las Vegas, taking on the Indiana Pacers. It will be Enaruna and 12 others looking to make a splash in the box score to catapult their NBA future.
The 24-year-old says if the opportunity isn’t there with the Cavaliers at the end of the summer, he’s hopeful he’ll land with another team.
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