The Philadelphia 76ers have swiftly moved to bolster their roster following the 2025 NBA Draft by signing Hunter Sallis to a two-way contract, according to multiple reports including ESPN's Shams Charania. The 6-foot-5 guard, who went undrafted on June 26, 2025, joins a franchise anchored by stars Paul George, Tyrese Maxey, and Joel Embiid, offering a promising blend of athleticism and skill.
Sallis’ journey to the professional ranks is a compelling tale of growth and perseverance. Originally a five-star recruit from Omaha, Nebraska, and a McDonald’s All-American, he began his collegiate career at Gonzaga University. Over two seasons (2021-2023) with the Bulldogs, Sallis played limited minutes off the bench, appearing in 69 games and averaging 4.4 points and 2.1 rebounds per game. Despite modest individual stats, he gained valuable experience in a top-tier program that posted a combined 63-10 record, secured back-to-back West Coast Conference titles, and reached the NCAA Sweet 16 twice during his tenure.
Seeking a larger role, Sallis transferred to Wake Forest for his junior and senior seasons, where he truly blossomed. In the 2023-2024 season, he averaged an impressive 18 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game while shooting an efficient 48.7% from the field and a stellar 40.5% from beyond the arc. His junior year marked a breakout performance, establishing him as a key offensive and defensive contributor for the Demon Deacons.
Returning for his senior year, Sallis maintained his scoring output with 18.3 points per game, alongside 5.1 rebounds and 2.8 assists. However, his shooting efficiency from three-point range dipped significantly to 27.7%, despite taking about five attempts per game. Still, his overall contributions included 1.8 steals per game and solid mid-range shooting, making him a versatile player on both ends of the floor. At the 2025 NBA Draft Combine, Sallis measured 6-foot-3.75 inches without shoes, weighed 181 pounds, and showcased an impressive 6-foot-10 wingspan, highlighting his physical tools.
Draft analysts like Sam Vecenie of The Athletic have praised Sallis’ silky ball-handling and mid-range prowess, describing him as “absolutely worth a two-way contract to see what he can become.” Vecenie also noted the necessity for Sallis to add at least 15 pounds of muscle to compete effectively at the NBA level on both offense and defense.
Sallis’ signing to a two-way contract means he will split time between the 76ers and their G League affiliate, the Delaware Blue Coats, allowing him to develop his game while earning NBA service time. This developmental path suits a player with Sallis’ profile—athletic, versatile, and with room to grow as a shooter and playmaker. His ability to create his own shot, combined with elite athleticism and a 6-foot-10 wingspan, gives him the tools to carve out a niche in the league.
His transition to the pros comes after a notable decision following the 2024 NBA Draft cycle. Sallis had initially declared for the draft after his junior season but chose to withdraw and return to Wake Forest for his senior year. While his scoring remained consistent, the dip in three-point shooting likely influenced his undrafted status this year. Still, the Sixers' quick move to sign him indicates confidence in his potential.
Joining Sallis in Philadelphia’s offseason roster moves are other undrafted rookies signed to Exhibit 10 contracts, including Spanish forward Izan Almansa and Tennessee’s Igor Milicic Jr. Almansa, 20, averaged 7.2 points and 4.0 rebounds last season with Australia’s Perth Wildcats, while Milicic posted 9.4 points and 6.7 rebounds during his senior year at Tennessee. These signings reflect the Sixers’ commitment to building depth and fostering young talent through their developmental system.
The 76ers also recently added two promising draft picks: VJ Edgecombe, selected third overall from Baylor, and Johni Broome, a center from Auburn taken with the 35th pick. With Sallis occupying one of the two-way slots alongside Alex Reese, the team’s roster is shaping up to blend high-end talent with developmental prospects.
Looking ahead, Sallis is expected to showcase his skills in the upcoming NBA Summer League starting in July 2025. This platform will give him an opportunity to impress the coaching staff and fans alike, demonstrating his readiness to contribute at the NBA level. His ability to adapt, improve his shooting consistency, and add strength will be critical factors in his trajectory.
Hunter Sallis’ path from a highly touted high school recruit to an undrafted free agent signing with a storied NBA franchise underscores the unpredictable nature of basketball careers. His perseverance and growth at Wake Forest highlight his capacity to evolve, and the 76ers’ investment in him signals a belief that he can develop into a valuable asset. As the 2025-2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Sallis to see how he navigates the challenges of professional basketball and whether he can translate his college success into the NBA spotlight.
