Former Texas A&M Guard Turning Heads at NBA Summer League
LAS VEGAS — Under the glaring lights of the Thomas & Mack Center, a name once whispered in SEC circles is now roaring through NBA Summer League chatter. Jalen “J-Rock” Matthews, the former Texas A&M combo guard, is turning heads with performances that feel more like declarations than auditions.
Matthews, a 6’4”, 205-pound guard who went undrafted just weeks ago, has stormed onto the scene with the Charlotte Hornets’ Summer League squad, averaging 19.8 points, 6.2 assists, and 2.4 steals through his first five games. But stats only tell half the story. It’s his tenacity, shot-making, and command of the floor that have scouts and analysts buzzing.
“Every time he touches the ball, something happens,” said one NBA scout courtside after Matthews dropped 26 points and dished 8 assists against the Lakers’ Summer League team. “He plays like he’s got something to prove — because he does.”
At Texas A&M, Matthews was known for his explosive first step and unrelenting defensive pressure. He wasn’t the team’s top scorer, but he was its soul. After a knee injury in his sophomore year sidelined him for most of the season, Matthews returned stronger, leading the Aggies to an unexpected Sweet Sixteen run in 2024. Still, draft night came and went without his name being called.
“I’m not bitter,” Matthews told reporters after his breakout performance on Monday. “I’m built for the long road. The NBA doesn’t owe me anything — I owe it to myself to keep working.”
That work is showing. In transition, Matthews is a blur, often finishing through contact or dishing slick no-looks to trailing teammates. Defensively, he’s a menace — picking pockets, fighting through screens, and guarding multiple positions. He’s been compared to a young Marcus Smart with a smoother jumper — an intriguing prototype for any team in need of a gritty backcourt presence.
Behind the scenes, his leadership has impressed as much as his game. “Jalen is the kind of guy you want in your locker room,” said Hornets assistant coach Dan Haywood. “He’s vocal, tough, and fearless. You can’t teach that.”
Rumors are already swirling about multiple teams expressing interest in converting Matthews’ Summer League contract into a two-way or even a full roster deal. The Hornets, who hold his rights through the duration of the Summer League, are reportedly in early talks to bring him to training camp this fall.
Whether or not that deal materializes, Matthews’ Summer League run has already cemented his place among the most intriguing underdog stories of the 2025 class. From overlooked prospect to Summer League star, he’s forcing the NBA to pay attention.
“People thought I’d fade out,” Matthews said with a grin. “But I’m just getting started.”
And if these performances are any indication, he’s right.
