Khalif Wyatt averaged a team-high 13.8 points per game in the Orlando Pro Summer League for the Sixers.

Former Temple standout pinching himself

It’s the ideal situation. And a bit surreal, too.

Khalif Wyatt starred at Norristown High and later at Temple. He lways hoped he would get a chance to play in the NBA. He just never thought it would happen in a Sixers uniform.

Now that he’s officially a member of the 2013-14 Sixers, it still hasn’t sunk in.

“I wake up every day and kind of have to pinch myself,” said Wyatt, who averaged a team-high 13.8 points per game at the Orlando Summer League. “I grew up as a Sixers fan and I’ll always be a Sixers fan. To be in the position I’m in, practicing with the Sixers, well, it’s a dream come true. I’m a very lucky person and I’m going to do all I can to take advantage of this opportunity.”

Wyatt was sensational for the Owls as a senior, lifting them with 31 points in an NCAA tournament victory over N.C. State. Then, he poured in 31 points and nearly helped Temple oust top-seeded Indiana.

In Orlando, Wyatt continued to display those skills.

“I’ve just been working as hard as I can, and it shows what hard work can do,” Wyatt said. “I have so much to improve on and I’m going to work at it and listen to the coaches every day. It’s a privilege to be here and I almost can’t believe I’m playing for my hometown team. I try not to sit back and think about it too much because I want to work as hard as I can to stay here and keep my dream alive.”

Wyatt is part of a young group and he’s aware of where most experts are picking the Sixers.

“That’s OK because then we’re the underdogs, and we can shock a lot of people,” Wyatt said. “That’s the plan. We’re going to work like crazy and surprise teams.”

When Wyatt earns his first action at the Wells Fargo Center, it will be a landmark day.

“I’ve played here with Temple, so there is some familiarity,” he said. “I know it’s going to be an incredible feeling. I can’t wait.”