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Holmes having solid summer league

While Jahlil Okafor is the unmistaken headliner of the 76ers draft class, Richaun Holmes could prove to be a valued addition.

SALT LAKE CITY – While Jahlil Okafor is the unmistaken headliner of the 76ers draft class, Richaun Holmes could prove to be a valued addition.

The 37th overall pick out of Bowling Green has been impressive in the Sixers' first two Utah Jazz Summer League games. He is averaging 11 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.5 steals and 1.5 blocks in a reserve role for the Sixers (1-1). The 6-foot-8, 248-pound power forward also has been clutch from the foul line, making 4 of 5 free throws.

"He just believes in himself," said Sixers assistant Billy Lange, who is coaching the summer-league team. "When he steps on the court, he's not overwhelmed with what's going on. So I think he's going to become more comfortable as time goes on."

The Illinois native hopes to bring energy to the Sixers as a rotation big next season.

"Be active. Rebound. Play defense," he said of his expected role. "And just do the little things – hustle plays – to help my team win. I just want to do whatever I can do in the moment."

Holmes averaged 11.5 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.6 blocks in three seasons at Bowling Green. He is the only player in school history with more than 1,000 points (1,089), 600 rebounds (652) and 200 blocks (244). His blocks total is a school record.

Lange thinks blocking shots is where Holmes will have the biggest impact.

"When he goes to the rim, he goes 100 percent," the assistant coach said. "He's going to dunk that ball, or he's going to block that ball. So he's committed to that. He attacks the basket."

Follow Inquirer 76ers beat writer Keith Pompey on Twitter @PompeyOnSixers and on Instagram at PompeyOnSixers