“Built for the Grind”: UNC Legend Armando Bacot Makes a Loud NBA Statement in Summer League Push
It’s been easy to doubt Armando Bacot at least from an NBA perspective. In an era where stretch bigs, fluid footwork, and perimeter range dominate scouting reports, the former North Carolina star has long been labeled a relic of a bygone era: too traditional, too slow, too paint-bound.
But this summer, Bacot is changing that narrative, one gritty performance at a time.
After a decorated five-year run at Chapel Hill, Bacot knew the next chapter wouldn’t be as glamorous. No automatic draft pick. No prime-time contract. Instead, it was the G-League, long bus rides, and relentless workouts. And now, after a full season grinding with the Memphis Hustle and a breakout showing at the 2025 NBA Summer League, Bacot may finally be knocking on the door of an NBA rotation spot.
And here’s the kicker: he absolutely deserves it.
Old-School Game, New-School Drive
At UNC, Bacot made his name by dominating the paint. A four-time All-ACC selection and two-time All-American, he etched his name into Tar Heel lore with relentless rebounding, physicality, and unmatched consistency. He was a walking double-double, collecting over 1,300 career rebounds and finishing as one of the most productive big men in program history.
But NBA scouts weren’t convinced. He wasn’t shooting threes. He wasn’t switching onto guards. His style bruising, deliberate, post-centric didn’t fit the modern game.
So Bacot went to work.
Building from the Ground Up in Memphis
Instead of sulking or going overseas, Bacot chose the G-League the place where dreams are rebuilt. With the Memphis Hustle, he showed growth in pace, mobility, and decision-making. He embraced the dirty work and added layers to his game.
When Summer League rolled around, Bacot had something to prove and he delivered.
Across three games, he posted double-digit scoring in two contests, including a 12-rebound performance that reminded everyone of his blue-collar identity. He showed sharper reads, improved footwork, and more confidence attacking mismatches. No, he’s still not shooting threes, but his presence felt impactful and his effort was undeniable.
Why the Grizzlies Are Watching Closely
The Memphis Grizzlies are in flux. With injuries, roster shuffling, and a desire to stabilize their frontcourt, they need bodies especially big ones. Behind Jaren Jackson Jr. and rookie Zach Edey, the rotation is thin, and Memphis needs players who are NBA-ready, team-first, and cost-efficient.
Enter Armando Bacot.
He knows the system. He’s been battle-tested in the G-League. And most importantly, he’s earned every inch of this opportunity.
Jackson just signed a $240 million extension meaning the Grizzlies will need cheap, reliable contributors to fill out the roster. Bacot, on a team-friendly deal with a chip on his shoulder, might be exactly what Memphis needs.
One More Shot to Prove It
At 25 years old, Bacot isn’t your typical rookie. But that’s what makes this story more compelling. He’s not a “potential” guy anymore he’s a finished product, sharpened by college dominance, humbled by rejection, and sculpted by the G-League grind.
He may never be a floor-spacing unicorn. But as a high-IQ, high-effort, interior presence who can crash boards and anchor second units? Bacot might be carving out a real niche in the league.
All he needs now… is the chance.
And if this summer is any indication, he’s more ready than ever.
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