Former Northwestern standout Nick Martinelli scored 19 points on 8-of-9 shooting in his first NBA Summer League start, helping the Clippers defeat the Wizards while continuing to strengthen his case as one of the biggest steals of the 2026 NBA Draft.
Former Northwestern forward Nick Martinelli continues proving he belongs at the NBA level.
Making his first start of NBA Summer League, Martinelli turned in his best performance yet, helping the Los Angeles Clippers defeat the Washington Wizards 108-94 while continuing to strengthen his case as one of the biggest steals of the 2026 NBA Draft.
The rookie forward finished with 19 points, five rebounds and two assists while shooting an outstanding 8-for-9 from the field and a perfect 3-for-3 from beyond the arc.
Martinelli couldn't have asked for a much better start.
He opened the game by making each of his first six shots, immediately providing an offensive spark while showcasing the efficient scoring that made him one of the nation's top collegiate players.
Through four Summer League games, Martinelli is averaging 14.0 points and 6.5 rebounds while shooting 55% from the field. With each appearance, he has looked increasingly comfortable against NBA competition.
His latest performance continued a trend that has become impossible to ignore.
After beginning Summer League coming off the bench, Martinelli has earned increased playing time through his consistent production, relentless effort and ability to impact the game in multiple ways.
His first start rewarded that trust, and he responded exactly how the Clippers hoped, delivering the best performance of his Summer League campaign.
Perhaps most encouraging has been his shooting.
Martinelli shot better than 40% from three-point range during his senior season at Northwestern, and that perimeter touch is already beginning to translate to the NBA. Knocking down all three of his attempts from deep against Washington provided another reminder that his shooting ability is very real and could become a valuable weapon at the next level.
Northwestern fans have seen this version of Martinelli before.
Nov 10, 2025; Evanston, Illinois, USA; Northwestern Wildcats forward Nick Martinelli (2) watches his three-point basket go in against Cleveland State Vikings guard Foster Wonders (0) during the first half at Welsh-Ryan Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn ImagesThroughout his collegiate career, he built a reputation as one of the Big Ten's most complete offensive players. While his scoring often drew the headlines, it was his combination of toughness, rebounding and relentless motor that helped separate him from many of his peers.
Those same qualities continue showing up in Summer League.
Whether attacking the offensive glass, diving for loose balls or playing through contact, Martinelli has embraced the physical style of play that made him successful in Evanston. His unconventional game, built on effort, basketball IQ and efficient scoring, has translated remarkably well against NBA competition.
For a player selected 55th overall, Martinelli is beginning to outperform expectations.
Every strong performance builds additional confidence from the Clippers coaching staff while strengthening his case for opportunities during the regular season. If he continues producing at this level, the former Wildcat could develop into one of the biggest steals of the second round.
It's still early, but Martinelli continues improving with every game.
For Northwestern fans, that's another encouraging sign that one of the program's greatest recent players is carrying his winning mentality to the professional level.
As Summer League continues, Martinelli is quickly becoming one of the Clippers' most intriguing young prospects while strengthening his case for meaningful minutes during his rookie season.
