Former Bandit DJ Steward Shines in NBA Preseason with the Boston Celtics
Bandits Staff • October 24, 2023
LANGLEY, B.C., October 24, 2023 – Former Vancouver Bandit DJ Steward made his mark at NBA Summer League and during the recent preseason as a member of the Boston Celtics.
Steward made his Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) debut last May as a member of the Bandits after
signing with the team in April and
wrapped up the NBA preseason with the Celtics late last week.
Before turning pro, Steward played one season at Duke University. During his 2020-21 season as a Blue Devil, the 6-foot-2 guard from Chicago, Ill., honed his skills under the legendary and former team USA head coach Mike Krzyzewski. Steward averaged 13 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.1 steals per game while shooting at 42.6 per cent during his lone freshman season at Duke, earning a spot on the ACC All-Freshman Team.
Steward's stint with the Bandits this past summer saw the former Illinois Player of the Year suit up in just two CEBL contests due to sustaining an injury in his second game. During this stint, he showcased his scoring ability by averaging an impressive 21 points per game. He also displayed versatility on both sides of the basketball, contributing five rebounds and 5.5 assists per game.
The injury and preparations for NBA Summer League–where Steward would eventually play for the Philadelphia 76ers–led to Steward’s mutual release from the Bandits. Steward excelled with Philadelphia; including a
36-point performance on July 16, 2023, against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Steward’s strong summer helped the talented guard secure a non-guaranteed training camp deal with the Boston Celtics, which has afforded Steward an opportunity to gain valuable playing time alongside all-stars such as Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
“DJ is a special player and it was truly unfortunate that he got hurt in our second game,” said Bandits head coach and general manager Kyle Julius. “We are happy for him and not at all surprised by his success in the NBA.”
Steward dressed in three games this preseason, against the New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers and Charlotte Hornets. Steward was waived by the Celtics last Friday and is expected to join the club’s NBA G League affiliate, the Maine Celtics, this fall.
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