The Indiana Pacers have officially announced that they have signed undrafted rookie RayJ Dennis to a two-way contract. Dennis previously played for the San Diego Clippers, the NBA G League affiliate of the Los Angeles Clippers. To make room for Dennis, the Pacers have waived Tristen Newton, who was also on a two-way contract.
In this season's NBA G League, Dennis has played in a total of 18 games, averaging 31.2 minutes per game, with an average stat line of 16.7 points, 3.5 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.6 blocks, along with 2.6 turnovers and 2.2 fouls. He has a shooting percentage of 46.6%, a three-point percentage of 34.1%, and a free throw percentage of 76%. Dennis has performed quite well this season, showcasing his comprehensive scoring ability on offense, maintaining a stable offensive efficiency, and having a decent three-point shooting rate. Additionally, he possesses solid passing and organizing skills, and his defensive performance is commendable, exceeding expectations. Overall, Dennis' performance so far has been commendable, which is believed to be a significant factor in the Pacers' decision to sign him.
Dennis, born in March 2001, is currently 23 years old, standing at 188 cm tall and weighing 82 kg. He was an undrafted prospect in this year's NBA draft. In last season's NCAA, Dennis played a total of 35 games for Baylor University, averaging 34.3 minutes per game, with an average stat line of 13.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, 6.8 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.1 blocks, along with 3.5 turnovers and 2.5 fouls. He had a shooting percentage of 47.9%, a three-point percentage of 32.8%, and a free throw percentage of 73.1%. Dennis joined Baylor University last summer and quickly became the team's backcourt core after joining. He played a crucial role on offense, and his contributions on the court were evident. However, due to his older age and average athletic ability, Dennis ultimately became an undrafted prospect in this summer's NBA draft.
This summer, Dennis represented the Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA Summer League, where he performed well and earned a training camp contract from the Clippers that included an Exhibit 10 clause. Unfortunately, during the preseason, Dennis was prematurely cut by the team. Afterward, Dennis briefly received a two-way contract from the Washington Wizards but was quickly cut as well. Although he may seem relatively unknown, Dennis' performance in the NBA G League is undeniable. It remains to be seen whether he can secure consistent playing time with the Pacers and establish himself in the NBA through his efforts.
