30 NBA Summer League Players You Can’t Miss in Vegas
Let’s Talk Summer League Hoops
Okay, so the NBA Summer League isn’t just some random exhibition games—it’s where future stars are born. Every July, Vegas turns into this crazy basketball lab where rookies, second-year guys, and random underdogs try to make a name for themselves. And this year? Man, it’s loaded. We’ve got lottery picks, late-round steals, and a bunch of dudes who just need one good week to change their careers. Here’s who you should be watching.
Why This Matters More Than You Think
Look, the Summer League is like that first day at a new job where you’re trying not to spill coffee on yourself. Teams get to see their new guys in (sort of) real action without the pressure of the regular season. For players? It’s their shot to prove they belong. And for us fans? It’s like getting to peek at Christmas presents early. The big questions this year: Can last year’s rookies step up? Which nobody becomes a somebody? And who’s gonna go full superstar mode and take home MVP?
The Must-Watch Players (Broken Down So You Actually Remember Them)
Eastern Conference Guys
Atlantic Division – Where the Hype Lives
- Boston Celtics: Jordan Walsh – This kid plays defense like his life depends on it. If he shows he can shoot? Game over.
- Brooklyn Nets: Dariq Whitehead – Was hurt most of last year, but when he’s right? Pure buckets.
- New York Knicks: Trevor Keels – Built like a linebacker but plays point guard. Knicks fans will love him if he figures it out.
- Philadelphia 76ers: Jaden Springer – Remember him? First-round pick two years ago. Time to show he wasn’t a mistake.
- Toronto Raptors: Gradey Dick – Best name in the draft, and the dude shoots like Steph in warmups. Vegas lights might not be safe.
Central Division – The Underrated Ones
- Chicago Bulls: Julian Phillips – Super athletic, plays defense, and if his shot falls? Steal of the draft.
- Cleveland Cavaliers: Emoni Bates – Was the next KD in high school. Now? Just trying to prove he belongs. Redemption tour starts here.
- Detroit Pistons: Ausar Thompson – Dude jumps out the gym and plays both ends. Exactly what the Pistons need.
- Indiana Pacers: Jarace Walker – Strong as an ox and smarter than most vets. Summer League might be too easy for him.
- Milwaukee Bucks: Chris Livingston – Raw talent, but the Bucks know how to develop guys. Watch this space.
Southeast Division – The Fun Ones
- Atlanta Hawks: Kobe Bufkin – Not THAT Kobe, but the kid can score in bunches.
- Charlotte Hornets: Nick Smith Jr. – Fast, flashy, and perfect for Charlotte’s run-and-gun style.
- Miami Heat: Jamal Cain – Miami always finds these gritty dudes who outwork everyone. This is their next one.
- Orlando Magic: Anthony Black – Big guard who sees the floor like he’s got eyes in the back of his head.
- Washington Wizards: Bilal Coulibaly – Was overshadowed by Wemby in France. Now? Time to show he’s more than just a sidekick.
Western Conference – Where the Real Show Is
Northwest Division – The Sleepers
- Denver Nuggets: Hunter Tyson – Perfect stretch-four for Denver’s system. Could be their next random contributor.
- Minnesota Timberwolves: Leonard Miller – Long, athletic, and still figuring it out. But the potential? Oh man.
- Oklahoma City Thunder: Cason Wallace – Plays defense like his dinner depends on it. And OKC needs that badly.
- Portland Trail Blazers: Scoot Henderson – The human highlight reel. If you only watch one guy, make it him.
- Utah Jazz: Keyonte George – Scores like he’s playing NBA 2K on rookie mode. Vegas might not be ready.
Pacific Division – The Entertainers
- Golden State Warriors: Brandin Podziemski – Feels like another Warriors late-round steal in the making.
- LA Clippers: Jordan Miller – Does everything well, nothing great. But that’s kinda the Clippers’ whole thing.
- Los Angeles Lakers: Jalen Hood-Schifino – Super mature for his age. Could be playing real minutes by Christmas.
- Phoenix Suns: Toumani Camara – Nobody’s talking about him. That’s usually when the Suns find a gem.
- Sacramento Kings: Colby Jones – Super polished. Might be NBA-ready right now, which is scary.
Southwest Division – The Wild Cards
- Dallas Mavericks: Olivier-Maxence Prosper – Energy guy who could carve out a role on a good team.
- Houston Rockets: Amen Thompson – The other Thompson twin. Just as athletic, maybe more skilled.
- Memphis Grizzlies: GG Jackson – Was a top recruit, then fell in the draft. Now he’s playing with a chip on his shoulder.
- New Orleans Pelicans: Jordan Hawkins – Shoots like he’s got a personal grudge against the rim.
- San Antonio Spurs: Victor Wembanyama – The main event. The reason we’re all here. Just don’t blink.
Don’t Sleep On These Guys
Beyond the obvious names, watch out for undrafted guys like Drew Timme (still can’t believe he didn’t get picked) and Oscar Tshiebwe (rebounding machine). And remember Mac McClung? Dunk contest champ might go crazy in Orlando’s system. Teams like the Spurs and Thunder? Their whole rosters are full of guys who could pop.
How To Actually Watch This Thing
Games start July 7th on ESPN and NBA TV—or just stream it on the NBA app if you’re lazy like me. Circle these dates: Wemby’s first game (July 7), the Thompson twins going at it (July 9), and the championship (July 17).
Final Thoughts
This Summer League is stupid deep with talent. From Wemby (duh) to random dudes you’ve never heard of (yet), it’s all must-watch basketball. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or just someone who likes cool dunks, this is your chance to see the future before everyone else does. So who’s your pick to break out? One thing’s for sure—somebody’s about to become a household name overnight.
Source: ESPN – News