CAVS SUMMER STAR? Nae’Qwan Tomlin Sparks Buzz After Dominant Summer League Opener—Too Good for G League?
In a summer league packed with rising stars, Nae’Qwan Tomlin might have just declared himself ready for the NBA spotlight.
While the Cleveland Cavaliers fell to the Indiana Pacers 116-115 in their 2025 NBA Summer League opener, the biggest takeaway wasn’t the scoreboard—it was the emergence of Tomlin as a legitimate roster contender for the Cavs’ main unit.
The 24-year-old forward erupted for 30 points on an ultra-efficient 12-of-16 shooting performance, including 3-of-7 from deep. Despite the chaotic, foul-heavy environment typical of Summer League play, Tomlin’s presence was anything but sloppy. His nine fouls—an unfortunate Summer League rule quirk that allows players to stay in the game beyond the standard six—were the only blemish on an otherwise dominant outing.
Too Good for Summer League?
Tomlin’s performance was more than just a good game—it was a statement. Standing 6-foot-10 and boasting the length, agility, and shooting touch of a modern NBA frontcourt threat, he looked a tier above many of his Summer League peers. While the Cavs still hold Tomlin on a two-way contract, nights like this raise serious questions about how long they can afford to leave him bouncing between the G League and the NBA bench.
Alongside 2024 first-round pick Jaylon Tyson, who notched a double-double, the duo gave Cleveland fans a glimpse into what the future might look like. Their chemistry and poise under pressure was a highlight on an otherwise rocky afternoon for the Cavaliers.
Proctor Impresses Quietly
Cleveland’s most recent second-round pick, Tyrese Proctor from Duke, also turned heads—albeit in a more understated fashion. In his 28-minute debut, the Australian guard poured in 14 points and nabbed two steals. While it wasn’t the flashiest performance, Proctor showed enough polish and instinct to validate his second-round selection and hint at a potentially high upside.
Still, the spotlight belonged to Tomlin.
From Harlem to the Hardwood: Tomlin’s Journey
Tomlin’s road to the NBA has been anything but conventional. Born in Harlem, New York, his path featured a string of stops at four different colleges, beginning at Monroe Community College and culminating with a final stint at the University of Memphis.
Undrafted in 2024, Tomlin began his professional journey with the Cleveland Charge, the Cavs’ G League affiliate. But halfway through the 2024-25 season, he got his first taste of NBA action, earning a two-way contract after the team waived JT Thor. He joined up-and-comers Emoni Bates and Luke Travers in Cleveland’s two-way player corps.
In five games with the Cavaliers, Tomlin’s role was limited. But in the G League, he thrived. His athletic frame and skillset made him a matchup nightmare—too big for wings, too agile for centers. He averaged double-digit points and showed off a promising ability to stretch the floor while defending multiple positions.
Positionless Prototype
At 6’10” and 210 pounds, Tomlin has the physical tools to be a versatile forward in today’s NBA. He can slot in at the center in small-ball lineups or play the four alongside a true big. His shooting continues to improve, and he’s shown a natural feel for cutting, finishing, and switching on defense.
The Cavaliers’ front office has clearly prioritized frontcourt depth this offseason. The team brought back veteran Larry Nance Jr. for a homecoming reunion, a move that not only adds experience but offers Tomlin an ideal mentor. With Nance’s reputation as a high-IQ glue guy who defends, rebounds, and facilitates, Tomlin could absorb a lot just by being in the same locker room.
Cleveland also locked in G League success story Sam Merrill to a long-term contract, signaling they’re not afraid to reward internal development with real NBA opportunities.
What Comes Next for Tomlin?
If Tomlin continues to dominate Summer League play like this, Cleveland might have no choice but to consider giving him a standard contract. His ability to space the floor, defend multiple positions, and provide energy off the bench could earn him real minutes during the 2025–26 season—especially if the Cavs deal with injuries or roster fatigue.
Summer League is far from a perfect litmus test, but it’s often where the next wave of role players begins to shine. Tomlin didn’t just shine—he outshone everyone else on the floor.
With more games left in Las Vegas, the Cavs coaching staff will be watching closely. If Tomlin can replicate his opening performance—or come close—he may leave the team with a difficult decision: continue developing in the G League, or make the leap to full-time NBA rotation piece.
Cleveland’s Next Development Gem?
The Cavaliers have made a habit of turning undervalued talent into solid contributors. From Dean Wade to Merrill to Isaiah Mobley, Cleveland’s eye for developmental upside has kept them competitive even with a modest roster cap sheet.
Tomlin could be the next name on that list. And if his Summer League debut is any indication, the only thing standing between him and a regular NBA role is time—and maybe a little paperwork.
For now, he’ll remain on a two-way deal. But if the Cavs are serious about competing in the East and keeping their depth sharp, it might be wise to start finding Tomlin a permanent locker in the main locker room at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
Because if Summer League is any indication, Nae’Qwan Tomlin doesn’t just belong—he might be ready to thrive.
