Former Northwestern standout Nick Martinelli followed up his impressive NBA Summer League debut with another efficient performance, continuing to win over Clippers fans through his scoring, hustle and leadership.
Former Northwestern standout Nick Martinelli is quickly becoming one of the Los Angeles Clippers' early Summer League success stories.
After an encouraging professional debut, Martinelli followed it with another efficient performance as the Clippers defeated the Utah Jazz 104-82 to improve to 1-1 in NBA Summer League play.
The rookie forward finished with 14 points, six rebounds and two assists in just 18 minutes, shooting an efficient 7-for-11 from the field. Through his first two Summer League games, Martinelli has continued to showcase the all-around game that made him one of the Big Ten's top players during his final season at Northwestern.
His impact has extended well beyond the box score.
Martinelli has quickly earned praise from Clippers fans for his energy, hustle and willingness to contribute on both ends of the floor. Whether crashing the glass, moving without the basketball or making the extra pass, the former Wildcat has consistently found ways to impact winning.
One of the game's biggest highlights came in transition when Martinelli confidently knocked down what initially appeared to be a deep three-pointer. Although the NBA later ruled the shot a two-pointer after review, it was still an encouraging moment for the rookie.
The shot served as another reminder that Martinelli's shooting touch is legitimate.
While he didn't shoot particularly well from three during the NBA Draft Combine or his pro day, he connected on more than 40% of his three-point attempts during his senior season at Northwestern. That shooting ability is beginning to translate at the professional level.
Martinelli also displayed another quality Northwestern fans know well: standing up for his teammates.
After Clippers guard Keaton Wagler took a hard hit to the face during the game, Martinelli immediately began walking toward the Utah bench as officials reviewed the play for a possible flagrant foul. Although the situation never escalated, the moment highlighted the competitiveness and loyalty that defined his collegiate career.
Those leadership qualities became trademarks during his time in Evanston.
Feb 11, 2026; Evanston, Illinois, USA; Northwestern Wildcats forward Nick Martinelli (2) is upset after being fouled by the Michigan Wolverines during the second half at Welsh-Ryan Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn ImagesMartinelli finished his Northwestern career as one of the most accomplished players in program history, averaging 23.0 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.0 assists during his senior season while shooting more than 40 percent from three-point range. Beyond the scoring, he built a reputation for toughness, leadership and doing whatever his team needed to win.
So far, those same characteristics have followed him to the NBA.
Just two games into Summer League, Martinelli has already shown he can score efficiently, rebound, defend, play with emotion and bring positive energy every time he steps on the floor.
While Summer League is only the beginning of his professional journey, Martinelli's first two performances have shown why the Clippers invested in him and why he could continue earning opportunities within the organization.
For Northwestern fans, it's another encouraging reminder that one of the program's greatest recent stars is carrying the same winning mentality that made him successful in Evanston onto the NBA stage.
