In the grind of an NBA season, it’s easy to get caught up in the headlines — the superstars dropping 40, the buzzer-beaters, the All-Star snubs. But behind every contender, there are unsung heroes putting in real work. So today, we pause to give a well-deserved s/o to our two-ways. 🫡
For those who might not know, two-way contracts allow players to split time between an NBA team and its G League affiliate. It’s a setup designed for development — a bridge between the dream and the league. But lately, two-way guys aren’t just filling practice squads. They’re stepping into real roles, earning rotation minutes, and in some cases, changing games.
These players are built different. They aren’t handed anything. They fight for every possession, every minute, every chance. While top picks enter the league with hype and endorsement deals, two-ways grind in smaller gyms, take long bus rides, and stay ready. No spotlight — just sweat and hustle.
Take a look around the league right now, and you’ll see two-way success stories blooming everywhere. From Jose Alvarado in New Orleans locking up full-time minutes with his pesky defense, to Austin Reaves, who went from undrafted to starting in the playoffs for the Lakers — the two-way path is real. These aren’t just feel-good stories — they’re proof that talent and work ethic can rise through any system.
The Celtics, Warriors, Heat, Thunder — they’ve all benefited from savvy two-way signings. Whether it’s a microwave scorer, a long-wing defender, or a high-IQ playmaker, two-way players often bring a hunger that’s contagious. They know what it’s like to be overlooked. That chip on their shoulder? It shows every time they dive for a loose ball or come off the bench with instant energy.
And let’s be real: with injuries, back-to-backs, and load management now a regular part of the league, having reliable two-way depth isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. These guys are often the glue that holds things together in those rough patches. One big game from a two-way player can flip momentum, steal a win, or buy the starters just enough rest to stay fresh.
So to all the two-ways out there grinding in silence: we see you. The 10-day contracts, the late nights studying film, the early morning flights — it’s not glamorous, but it matters. And for fans paying attention, it’s beautiful to watch. It’s the heart of the game — earn your spot, seize your moment.
So here’s a shoutout to the overlooked, the underrated, the underestimated — our two-ways. Keep hoopin’. Keep grinding. Your time is coming. 🫡
