Las Vegas Summer League has arrived! For 11 dazzling days in the Nevada sun, basketball fans will be treated to a spectacle filled with the thrill of watching the game’s rising stars showcase their skills. Whether you’re soaking in the atmosphere in person or catching the action from home, this is the time to satisfy your basketball cravings. The Summer League offers a chance to unearth hidden talent amidst some of the most unpredictable and unorthodox basketball you’ll ever witness. Who knows? We might even see some dramatic sudden-death overtimes mixed in! This is your essential guide to navigating all the excitement.
A Must-See Opening Game
The NBA has certainly capitalized on the buzz surrounding this year’s Summer League, kicking things off with a highly anticipated matchup between the Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday at 8 p.m. ET (ESPN). While it’s common for the top two picks from last month’s draft to face off, this year’s lineup flips the script in favor of generating social media buzz.
With Bronny James and Cooper Flagg in the spotlight, the league knows exactly how to grab headlines. Yes, Bronny’s presence is undeniably linked to his father, LeBron James, and while some might grumble about the attention he garners, it’s important to watch how he measures up against one of the most talked-about prospects of recent years. Expect social media to explode no matter who takes center stage in this matchup.
The atmosphere promises to be electric, with legacies on the line and future stars looking to make their mark. If this year’s Summer League mirrors the excitement of past performances—like Andrew Wiggins and Jabari Parker in 2014 or the buzz around Lonzo Ball’s debut in 2017—fans are in for a treat.
Focus on the First Weekend
Feeling a bit daunted by the prospect of 11 days packed with games? You’re not alone. If you’re trying to figure out which matchups to prioritize, the first weekend is your best bet. Typically, you’ll see the top prospects logging solid minutes before teams pull them to avoid injury.
Here are the can’t-miss games during the initial days of action:
Thursday (besides the Mavs-Lakers showdown):
- New Orleans Pelicans vs. Minnesota Timberwolves, 3:30 p.m. ET (ESPN2): A battle of promising point guards featuring Jeremiah Fears and Rob Dillingham.
Friday:
- Utah Jazz vs. Charlotte Hornets, 7 p.m. ET (ESPN): A chance for Kon Knueppel to show why the Hornets picked him over Ace Bailey.
- Washington Wizards vs. Phoenix Suns, 9 p.m. ET (ESPN): Alex Sarr’s matchup against Khaman Maluach promises intriguing play from two big men.
- Portland Trail Blazers vs. Golden State Warriors, 10 p.m. ET (ESPN2): The debut of Yang Hansen, the surprise pick of the first round.
Saturday:
- Dallas Mavericks vs. San Antonio Spurs, 4 p.m. ET (ESPN): The showdown between Flagg and Harper is one for the ages.
- Indiana Pacers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder, 5:30 p.m. ET (NBA TV): Another thrilling rematch, this time pitting young talents against each other.
Sunday:
- Miami Heat vs. Cleveland Cavaliers, 7:30 p.m. ET (NBA TV): A chance to see Kel’el Ware in action.
- Brooklyn Nets vs. Washington Wizards, 8 p.m. ET (ESPN2): All eyes will be on the Nets’ impressive lineup of first-round picks.
Teams to Watch
Among the multitude of players to keep an eye on this summer, there are certain teams with rosters that promise high entertainment value—especially if their top prospects extend their stays.
Minnesota Timberwolves: This roster is stacked with talent. Expect to see Dillingham, Terrence Shannon Jr., and Jaylen Clark light it up, possibly earning early exits from summer league if they assert their dominance. Newcomer Joan Beringer, the 17th pick, adds to the intrigue with his rim-rattling potential.
Washington Wizards: With an eye-popping total of seven first-round picks in the next two drafts, it’s all about talent evaluation for the Wizards. Watch for Alex Sarr to possibly shine, possibly leading to a short tournament appearance.
New Orleans Pelicans: Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen are already generating buzz, and they’ll be supported by proven contributors from last year’s roster. Their chemistry and progression could be a big talking point.
Philadelphia 76ers: Edgecombe, this year’s No. 3 pick, is set to impress in the Summer League. Keep an eye on veterans like Johni Broome and Jalen Hood-Schifino, who will add some exciting dynamics.
Utah Jazz: Ace Bailey is undoubtedly the marquee name, but the Jazz have a deep roster that should provide plenty of entertaining performances during the league.
Championship Thrills
From July 18-20, the Summer League transitions to a single-elimination tournament format. While teams are guaranteed five games, you’d be surprised how many teams might not be chomping at the bit to reach that milestone. Getting eliminated early isn’t always frowned upon, as teams weigh the stress of prolonged play.
The history of the Summer League tournament has produced nine different champions since 2013, each with their own stories to tell. Last year, for instance, the Miami Heat took home the title against the Memphis Grizzlies. The overtime thrill of the Elam ending adds a unique twist, ensuring the games remain unpredictable until the final moments.
Whether basking under the lights of Las Vegas or glued to your screen at home, the Summer League is sure to serve up compelling basketball, showcasing the future of the NBA like never before. So gear up, grab your favorite snacks, and enjoy the ride!
