Jordan Walsh Cements His Place in Celtics History as All-Time Leading NBA Summer League Scorer With 185 Points and Counting

The Boston Celtics’ Summer League tradition just witnessed a new chapter of greatness. Jordan Walsh has officially etched his name into franchise history, becoming the all-time leading scorer in Celtics NBA Summer League play with a remarkable 185 points. The 20-year-old forward has now passed former record holders Al Jefferson, Tony Allen, Carsen Edwards, and J.D. Davison, among others, in a feat that reflects both his development and his deep competitive fire.

Walsh’s journey to this record has not been an overnight phenomenon. A gritty, high-motor athlete with a wingspan that wreaks havoc on both ends of the court, Walsh entered the 2023 NBA Draft as a raw but intriguing prospect out of Arkansas. Selected 38th overall by the Celtics, he was initially seen as a defensive specialist with upside. But now, thanks to his Summer League dominance over the last two years, Walsh has proven he’s far more than just a one-dimensional player.

This year, Walsh has been in a groove offensively, showcasing a much-improved jumper, sharper decision-making, and a commanding presence. In five games this summer, he averaged over 18 points per contest, combining that output with stout defense and aggressive rebounding. In many ways, his evolution mirrors the ideals the Celtics have long held dear—toughness, versatility, and relentless energy.

Passing Al Jefferson’s long-standing mark of 182 points was no small accomplishment. Jefferson, a first-round pick in 2004, was a promising young big man during his Celtics tenure and used Summer League as a springboard to a productive NBA career. Likewise, Tony Allen, who ranks third with 175 points, built his Summer League performances into a decade-long career defined by tenacious defense and winning basketball. These are names held in high regard in Boston’s storied system. For Walsh to now lead this list puts him among noteworthy company.

Yet Jordan Walsh’s story is just beginning. The 6-foot-7 forward didn’t enter the NBA with the hype of a lottery pick. But what he’s done since then—building his body, developing his shot, and asserting his two-way potential—speaks volumes about his work ethic. Every point he’s scored this summer has come with purpose. Whether draining corner threes, slashing in transition, or cutting to the rim with perfect timing, Walsh has looked like a player who belongs in the Celtics’ rotation.

The Celtics’ developmental staff deserves praise too. They’ve given Walsh the freedom to play through mistakes and the structure to grow. This Summer League was a testing ground, and Walsh aced every exam. While it’s rare for Summer League stats to translate directly into regular-season impact, the sheer consistency of Walsh’s output—culminating in him topping the franchise leaderboard—signals more than just a statistical achievement. It’s a clear indicator that he’s ready for more meaningful minutes.

What makes Walsh’s accomplishment even more impressive is the era in which he did it. The Summer League has evolved, with fewer games and shorter stints. For a player to score 185 points in that setting—especially as a non-primary scorer on paper—is a testament to his assertiveness and efficiency. Walsh has always had the athletic tools. Now, his confidence and offensive rhythm are matching that potential.

Behind Walsh on the list is Al Jefferson, who tallied 182 points during his Celtics Summer League career. Jefferson eventually became a 20-and-10 guy in the NBA, and Walsh has already shown glimpses of being a high-impact starter down the line—albeit in a different role. Third on the list, Tony Allen, known as “The Grindfather,” carved a niche as one of the league’s premier perimeter defenders. Walsh, too, has the makings of an elite defender, but with a more refined offensive toolkit.

Then there’s Carsen Edwards, whose 166 points came in electrifying bursts, and the duo of J.D. Davison and Ryan Gomes, tied at 150 points. Each of these players, in their own way, left their mark on the Celtics’ Summer League tradition. But Walsh has now surpassed them all. And he’s done it with poise, progression, and polish.

What’s next for Jordan Walsh is the most exciting part. With the Celtics having made several offseason adjustments to remain in title contention, depth will play a crucial role in the long season ahead. And Walsh, with his defensive prowess and expanding offensive game, seems poised to take a bigger role. It wouldn’t be surprising to see him crack the rotation early in the 2025–26 season.

His perimeter defense alone makes him a valuable asset. But the development of his offensive game is what transforms him into a possible game-changer. Whether he’s spacing the floor, crashing the glass, or creating in transition, Walsh is showing that he understands the Celtics’ system and can thrive in it.

Teammates and coaches have taken notice too. Assistant coaches have raved about Walsh’s motor and desire to improve. Veteran players have reportedly embraced his no-nonsense approach and humility. These aren’t traits that show up on a stat sheet, but they matter inside a winning locker room.

Boston fans, meanwhile, have embraced the rising star with open arms. Known for their high basketball IQ and fierce loyalty, Celtics fans appreciate players who bring heart and hustle. Jordan Walsh has delivered both in spades. The Garden faithful can already envision the Arkansas product earning a standing ovation after a momentum-shifting block or corner three in a tight playoff game.

The Celtics’ legacy is defined by banners, but also by the blue-collar spirit of those who wore the green and white with pride. Walsh, though still early in his journey, embodies that spirit. His Summer League scoring record is a symbol of potential fulfilled in the short term and a promise of bigger things to come.

There’s no guarantee of NBA stardom. Summer League stats don’t always translate. But there’s a different aura about Walsh. He’s not just compiling numbers—he’s impacting games. He’s not just playing for a contract—he’s playing with purpose. And when that mindset is paired with undeniable talent, the results can be special.

So here’s to Jordan Walsh—the new standard-bearer of Celtics Summer League excellence. He may have started out as a second-round flyer, but he’s now leading a list of former first-rounders, NBA veterans, and Celtics legends. His 185 points are more than just a record. They’re a statement.

A statement that he’s not waiting for an opportunity—he’s creating it. A statement that he’s not just part of the future—he’s ready to shape it now.

As the Celtics gear up for another run at the NBA title, Jordan Walsh is ready to make his mark in the big league. And as far as Summer League history goes, he’s already at the top.