3 reasons why Noah Vonleh can make Boston Celtics roster

No. 2: He re-invented himself playing overseas

Many NBA fans may have pondered during the last season of what ever happened to Noah Vonleh? He would go on to play what would be his last 11 games between the 2020 NBA bubble and the 2020-21 season between the Denver Nuggets and Brooklyn Nets.

Averaging around just three minutes a night in those 11 games was enough to step-back and redefine who he is as a basketball player?  The next stop the 2021-22 campaign would take place in the CBA or Chinese Basketball Association. The big man laced up for the Shanghai Sharks and had his most complete professional ball season to date.

As a member of the Sharks, he posted averages of 15 points, 9.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists, two steals and 1.5 blocks per game on solid efficiency on 45% shooting overall including an improved 38% three point shot.

Noah accomplished this production on only 22 minutes of action nightly. Stats do not paint the whole story of his transformation into the best version of himself as a complete player. Playing in China from a casual basketball fan can be seen as frown upon because from their perception the competition is not as good. However, others, such as Gerald Green and even Michael Beasley, had great success on reinventing themselves by doing the unconventional.

Vonleh is taking other opportunities whether it’s performing in recreation leagues like the Seattle Pro Am or the Drew League, grinding through the ranks of the NBA G-League, or taking a year to go play ball for an overseas club. At the end of day, basketball reps in any form will enhance a players game.

Brad Stevens and Co. obviously kept a keen eye on his continued development in the CBA.