The 2026 NBA Summer League is heating up, with the semifinals and consolation games providing a showcase for the league's top rookies and future stars. Here's a breakdown of the action, with a focus on the top performers and emerging talents.
Semifinal Showdowns
Rockets vs. Grizzlies:
- The Rockets, led by rookie Bruce Thornton, are making waves with their high-scoring offense and stingy defense. Thornton, a second-round pick, is shining with 21.3 ppg and a 44.0 3P% in Vegas.
- The Grizzlies, with Cameron Boozer and Cedric Coward, are a force to be reckoned with, ranking top-5 in shooting and 4th in points per game.
- The Rockets' playoff-crashing win over the Hawks, a top-2 seed contender, showcases their potential.
Warriors vs. Lakers:
- The Lakers, led by Cameron Carr, are undefeated and averaging the most team assists and best shooting percentage in Vegas.
- Carr, the No. 24 pick, is a standout with 18.3 ppg and a +13 plus/minus.
- The Warriors, with Yaxel Lendeborg, are also making an impact, ranking 4th in 3s per game and shooting 35.9% from long range.
Consolation Games
- Celtics vs. Magic: Hugo González and Jase Richardson lead Boston and Orlando, respectively, with matching offensive outputs.
- Sixers vs. Bucks: Labaron Philon, a No. 22 pick, is a bright spot for Philly, while Brayden Burries, a No. 10 pick, shines for Milwaukee.
- Hawks vs. Wizards: Top-pick AJ Dybantsa's summer season is reportedly complete, but he made an impact in Washington's wins.
- Pacers vs. Pelicans: Kobe Bufkin, averaging over 20 points, aims to leave a lasting impression after a 30-piece on July 9.
Summer Scouting
- The Athletic's Sam Vecenie provides scouting reports on top draft picks, praising AJ Dybantsa's star wing upside and Darryn Peterson's shotmaking ability.
- Cam Boozer and Caleb Wilson are also highlighted for their impressive performances.
Friday Finales
- Keaton Wagler, LA's No. 5 pick, led the Clips to a win over the Wolves in OT, showcasing clutch free throws and a strong performance.
- Meleek Thomas, the No. 34 pick, dominated with 27.3 ppg in Vegas, averaging never scoring below 20 points.
2026 Nike EYBL Peach Jam
- Cayden Daughtry broke the single-game scoring record with a 43-point explosion, pushing his team through 3 OTs.
- NBA greats like Desmond Bane and Jamal Crawford attended, praising Daughtry's skills and performance.
The Summer League continues to provide an exciting glimpse into the future of the NBA, with rising stars and emerging talents leaving their mark on the league.
