The Cleveland Cavaliers looked lackluster in the first quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday, until Meleek Thomas entered the game and injected the team with two-way energy.

In his debut, Thomas helped the Cavaliers win in overtime, 127-125, at Rocket Arena, dealing the Timberwolves their first loss of the season after a 3-0 start. Cleveland improved to 2-1.

The 20-year-old rookie was efficient in 19 minutes off the bench, finishing with 16 points, two rebounds, and one steal. He shot 6-of-10 from the field, including 4-of-5 from long distance.

Despite not seeing action in the Cavaliers’ first two games, Thomas said he remained patient.

“Regardless of whatever’s going on, practices, games, just stay ready. Your moment will come because you can’t really keep a star in the closet for too long,” said the No. 34 pick in the postgame conference.

 

For any hotshot coming out of college, getting a small role in the NBA is unnerving. But for Thomas, although he was glued to the bench in Cleveland’s first two outings, he accepted that it is part of the process.

You may also likeArticle continues below
Cavs rookie Meleek Thomas' NBA debut has John Calipari beaming like a proud papa
Cavs end Timberwolves' winning streak in thrilling overtime victory
Watch Cavs rookie Meleek Thomas get first career NBA bucket vs. Timberwolves
Mario Hezonja's message to Cavs' Donovan Mitchell that should pay off in clutch situations

“(I was) just strong in my faith. My motto and my method is whatever God puts you through, even if it’s bad, then it’s for you,” added the former Arkansas standout.

“I was just telling myself, me not playing, that’s for me. He wants me to persevere and overcome it. If He doesn’t want me to play for five games, then be ready for the sixth.”

While his debut was encouraging, Thomas cannot be overconfident. He will have to continue earning his minutes playing behind Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Sam Merrill, and Jaylon Tyson.