During his last two games of the NBA Summer League, Kel'el Ware looked - and played - like a completely different player. It's almost as if something clicked for him when Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra "called him out" after a few lackluster performances.
From all indications, it seems like Ware received the "wake-up call" he needed from Spo.
Over his last two games of summer league, before being shut down, Ware averaged 21 points, 12 rebounds, and two blocks on 55 percent shooting from the field overall, including going 5-6 from 3-point range. He was dominant and finally playing like he should.
However, during the first few summer league games, Ware was far too inconsistent and lackadaisical for the Heat's liking. So much so that it prompted Spo to call it out.
If the way he closed out his summer league stint is any indication, it does appear as if something has clicked for Ware. However, at least for now, that remains only a hope for the Heat. They won't truly know until we see it play out when it actually counts, in the regular season.
But, make no mistake, Ware certainly closed his summer league on a high note. It should propel him into his sophomore season.
The sky is the limit for Kel'el Ware
Despite what transpired this offseason, one thing is clear for Ware moving forward: it's the fact that the sky is the limit for him. He's a supremely talented player who is just beginning to scratch the surface of his potential.
On paper, he's the perfect fit next to Bam Adebayo in the frontcourt and, theoretically, should emerge as a duo that will only benefit each other. He's also one of the few young players on the team who could tangibly raise the ceiling for the Heat this season.
If Ware can take a sizable step in his development this upcoming season, perhaps even emerge as a real paint protector next to Bam, it will go a long way in helping the Heat reemerge as a playoff threat in the Eastern Conference this season.
And while it may have come with some growing pains, the "wake-up" call from Spo may be exactly what Ware needed to unlock his true potential moving forward.
There aren't many that are expecting much from the Heat this season. But if they do defy expectations, the continued emergence of Ware will be a big reason why. And there's a very good chance this summer could end up being a springboard for Ware's career.