A former Wisconsin Badgers center continues to plug away at attempting to make the NBA after receiving playing time during a recent game.
The NBA Summer League is in full swing and young players are everywhere attempting to both prove themselves and make a roster for the upcoming season. The overwhelming majority of players will likely find homes in the G-League after the shortened summer season, but for a few an NBA roster spot is in contention.
For former Wisconsin Badgers center Steven Crowl, making a roster for the upcoming season regardless of it being a G-League spot or a full fledged NBA spot is the main goal. However, achieving that goal in Utah could be a difficult task for Crowl as the direction of the team is currently unknown.
Wisconsin Badgers forward Steven Crowl (22) fouls Northwestern Wildcats guard Jordan Clayton (11)
Mar 13, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Wisconsin Badgers forward Steven Crowl (22) fouls Northwestern Wildcats guard Jordan Clayton (11) during the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images
Previously, the Jazz selected Ace Bailey, Walter Clayton Jr, and John Tonje in the NBA Draft in an effort to usher in more scorers. A season ago, the Jazz finished in the bottom half of the league in most offensive categories including scoring and accuracy. In an effort to retool, the Jazz placed a priority on acquiring slick, accurate shooters with the ability to score from any level.
Crowl was offered an Exhibit 10 deal after the draft from the Jazz which essentially gives the big-man a chance to tryout for the NBA with an option to join the G-League afterwards with a bonus if Crowl stays with an affiliate of the Jazz. The chances of making the NBA are very slim for Crowl, but so has been playing time thus far into the Summer League.
Former Wisconsin Badgers Center Steven Crowl Earns Limited Minutes During Summer League Clash
The Summer League has long been a developmental tool for both coaches and players in an environment where wins and losses truly mean nothing. Franchises use this opportunity to give free playing time to players who need it or who the staff feels need to prove themselves.
For Crowl, the Summer League has been very quiet thus far and likely will not change with other big-man also gracing the court. The Jazz have been interested in seeing what former UCONN and Chicago Bulls center Adama Sanogo can do throughout the Summer League. Sanogo has been eating up the majority of minutes that Crowl could receive off of the bench which has largely been due to the athleticism of Sanogo.
Wisconsin Badgers basketball forward Steven Crowl
Jan 6, 2025; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Wisconsin Badgers forward Steven Crowl (22) looks to pass asRutgers Scarlet Knights forward Dylan Grant (9) defends during the second half at Jersey Mike’s Arena. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
The former Wisconsin Badgers center made an appearance during the 103-93 loss to the Golden State Warriors and recorded six minutes. Crowl had a rebound, a turnover, and did not attempt a shot while on the court for the Jazz. The appearance was a positive moment for Crowl but also occurred after the game had already been placed out of reach.
Thus far into the journey into the ranks of the NBA, Crowl has struggled to make the adjustment to the level of play which has kept the center back. Moving forward, the center may see more minutes before the Summer League wraps up, but it likely will not be anything significant.
Wisconsin Badgers, Maryland Terrapins, Wisconsin basketball
Jan 29, 2025; College Park, Maryland, USA; Wisconsin Badgers forward Steven Crowl (22) rebounds the ball against Maryland Terrapins center Derik Queen (25) during the first half at Xfinity Center. Mandatory Credit: Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images
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