Story by Nick Kendall
Contributing writer
nkendall1@murraystate.edu
Former Murray State point guard, Cameron Payne hopes to make an NBA comeback with some great performances at the Las Vegas summer league.
The Memphis native told the Memphis Commercial Appeal he credits former NBA star, now Memphis Tigers’ Head Coach Penny Hardaway for helping him work on his game which has led to the dominant performances.
“He’s a point guard and he’s teaching me with film, teaching me defensively,” Payne said. “I’m just blessed to be able to work with him.”
Payne was a big part of the Racers’ 29-6 record in the 2014-15 season which included the program’s 24th OVC championship and a pair of wins in the National Invitation Tournament.
He also became the second fastest Racer to score 1,000 points.
Payne was selected 14th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2015 and provided viable scoring off the bench along with some memorable pre-game rituals with former MVP point guard Russell Westbrook.
Foot and calf injuries have kept Payne sidelined for most of his time in the NBA, especially after being traded to the Chicago Bulls in 2016.
Payne missed 179 of 246 of his games with the Bulls and only averaged 6.5 points, three assists and two rebounds.
After meeting with many teams, Payne believes the Mavericks can provide him the best chance to revive his career because they showed the most interest in him.
Summer league head coach Mike Weinar told Dwain Price of mavs.com that he’s familiar with Payne and what he can do.
“I’ve known him for a long time since his college days back at Murray State,” Weinar said. “I’m familiar with his game and familiar with what he does. He’s an attacker. I like his presence off the ball as well.”
Payne, 24, is averaging 20 points, five rebounds, four assists and three steals as a member of the Dallas Mavericks.
In his most recent game on Monday, July 8, Payne erupted against the Sacramento Kings. He shot 7-for-12 from behind the arc and finished the game with 32 points.
Price reminded Payne he has an opportunity to be on the Mavericks final roster next season with Luka Don?i? and Kristaps Porzi??is. Payne is excited, but he’s focused on the present.
“Obviously that’s great, but right now my focus is on this team we’ve got right here,” Payne said. “It would be a blessing. That’s why I’m working hard and what I’m working towards, so I hope it happens.”
Payne’s run with the Mavericks summer league team ends on July 15. To see his remaining games and performance recaps click here.