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Andrew Andrews is Making the Most of His Opportunity With the Charlotte Hornets

By Jerry Stephens

Oct 3, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard C.J. Williams (21) defends against Charlotte Hornets guard Andrew Andrews (1) during the second half at the American Airlines Center. The Mavericks defeated the Hornets 95-88. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 3, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard C.J. Williams (21) defends against Charlotte Hornets guard Andrew Andrews (1) during the second half at the American Airlines Center. The Mavericks defeated the Hornets 95-88. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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Andrew Andrews may only be a camp invite for the Charlotte Hornets but he is making the most of his opportunity with the team during preseason.

After only a single preseason game, it is clear that Andrew Andrews is trying to make a name for himself in this league. The undrafted free agent got his opportunity when the Charlotte Hornets signed him to a camp invite deal this summer. In his lone game against the Dallas Mavericks, the shooting guard was the team’s second leading scorer in only 17 minutes.

Not only that, he was also the fourth leading scorer in the game with the rest being players who already have guaranteed NBA contracts. Although Andrews only scored 10 points, he did so in limited playing time and also shot 2-2 from the field. He also made one three and shot 5-6 from the free throw line.

In only 17 minutes and 27 second of game action, he shot the second most free throws in the game. Andrew got to the charity stripe with ease and converted once he got there. His numbers may not jump out at you but he is doing exactly what he needs to get recognized. At only 6’2, he will need to play as a scoring point guard or an undersized two guard at the NBA level.

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During his four years at the University of Washington, Andrews was a scoring guard. He averaged 20.9 points per game his senior season and he is now showcasing his scoring ability at the NBA level. While the 23-year old guard has much more to his game than just scoring, that is what he does best and he is putting himself on the map by doing it at this level.

If there is one thing that coaches, teams, and fans like, it’s a player that can score. Andrews can definitely put the ball in the basket so that alone could get him a contract at the NBA or D-Legaue level this year. While his scoring is enough to get him into the league, Andrew will need to show more wrinkles in his game if he wants to make a career in the association.

After averaging 11 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game with the Los Angeles Clippers during the 2016 Orlando Pro Summer League, the Hornets decided to give him a shot on their training camp roster. Most guys that come in on a training camp invite spot don’t usually make the team’s final roster. They are mainly used as an extra body during drills and added competition for players on guaranteed deals.

With the addition of the Greensboro Swarm as the Charlotte Hornets’ NBA D-League affiliate this year, Andrews could have a secure landing spot once the preseason is over. While it is still unlikely that Andrew makes the final 15-man roster, he could very well end up with the Swarm and play in the D-League this year. Although, if he does continue to get minutes, play well, and coach Clifford sees a need for him, the reigning PAC-12 leading scorer could surprise a few and end up making the team.

With the probable scenario being that he plays in Greensboro, that wouldn’t be the worst option for an undrafted free agent like Andrew. It is a bit surprising that Andrews received more playing time against the Mavs than other young players like Christian Wood, Aaron Harrison, and Rasheed Sulaimon. The Hornets still have six preseason game on their schedule and that’s another six opportunities for Andrews to make a name for himself.

Something must be said about guys like Andrew Andrews who are fighting for their careers in the preseason. This is his one shot to get an NBA contract and impress teams around the league. After one exhibition game, he has started things off right and proven that he may have what it takes to make it professionally.

Here’s a quick look at exactly what Andrews is capable of:

Hopefully Andrew gets playing time in the remaining preseason games and continues to get a chance to prove himself to Charlotte’s coaching staff. At the very least, he cold secure a high level role with the Greensboro Swarm and potentially be called up if an injury or trade takes place later in the season.

Considering his situation, that’s all you can ask from him. This is an opportunity that not many players get and even fewer really take advantage of by making a real impact on their training camp team. It will be interesting to see what happens with Andrews and the Hornets but so far, it is looking good for the undrafted free agent guard.

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If Andrews can continue his great play for the rest of the preseason, he may leave a lasting impression going forward. Even if Andrew doesn’t make the Charlotte Hornets’ final roster, he can still draw some attention to himself with his play. Maybe another team will take a chance on him if he can continue to score at a high rate.

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