After a somewhat subdued showing from the 2024 NBA rookie class, where the biggest draw in Las Vegas was arguably a second-round pick, the energy and anticipation at the 2025 NBA Summer League were undeniably back. With the highly touted 2025 draft class making its debut, fans and scouts alike descended upon Las Vegas, eager to witness the initial steps of basketball`s next generation. This isn`t just about winning a summer championship; it`s a crucial proving ground, a chaotic audition where raw talent meets professional demands. Let`s delve into the performances that captured attention and offered a tantalizing peek into the future.
The Spotlight and the Burden: Top Picks Under Scrutiny
The weight of expectation sits heaviest on the shoulders of the top draft selections, and the 2025 class was no exception. Cooper Flagg, the Dallas Mavericks` No. 1 overall pick, endured a tough start but quickly reminded everyone why he was so coveted. After a challenging 5-for-21 shooting performance in his debut, Flagg erupted for 31 points in his next outing before being strategically rested. Playing as a point forward, his usage rate was remarkably high, a testament to the Mavericks pushing him into an expanded role. While his handle will need tightening for the regular season, his ability to draw fouls, evidenced by a remarkable 13 free-throw attempts in one game, showcased an innate knack for exploiting defenses even against fellow professionals. It seems the burden of being a top pick can sometimes be a badge of honor, forged in the crucible of early struggles.
Similarly, Dylan Harper, the San Antonio Spurs` No. 2 pick, debuted in the same game, logging 16 points in 20 minutes. Harper also shouldered an immense usage rate, and while his efficiency (36% shooting, 1-of-8 from three) buckled under the load, the flashes of skill that made him the second pick were undeniable. When playing alongside established talents like Victor Wembanyama, Harper’s role will undoubtedly shift, likely leading to more assists and fewer forced shots. Meanwhile, the Washington Wizards’ No. 6 pick, Tre Johnson, quietly impressed. His size, especially a wingspan exceeding 6-foot-10, sets him apart from typical score-first shooting guards. Johnson’s smooth shooting stroke, hitting 69% on two-pointers and a respectable 5-of-11 from beyond the arc, hinted at a player who can seamlessly translate his scoring prowess to the NBA game without the same physical limitations.
Polished Gems and Rising Stars: Beyond the Top Five
Summer League isn`t solely about the highest picks; it`s also a stage for more seasoned rookies and unexpected talents to shine. Nique Clifford, a 23-year-old from the Sacramento Kings, stood out as one of the most polished newcomers. His five years of college experience were evident as he averaged 18.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 5.0 assists. His encouraging 9-of-17 (53%) shooting from the NBA three-point line, though unlikely to be sustained, complements his savvy playmaking, suggesting a readiness for the professional game.
Charlotte`s Liam McNeeley, drafted 29th, arguably outplayed his higher-picked teammate, Kon Knueppel. McNeeley`s debut was particularly strong, registering 22 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 assists – surpassing his college career high in rebounds. His consistent three-point shooting in both games played was a welcome sight after struggling with 32% from the college line. And then there`s Yang Hansen, the Portland Trail Blazers` No. 16 pick and the highest draft pick from China since 2007, who certainly drew eyeballs. The 7-foot-1 center’s perimeter passing was exceptional, highlighted by 10 assists across three games, several of them highlight-reel worthy. He also surprised with better-than-expected shot-blocking (2.0 per game) and a decent 4-of-11 from three-point range, making him an intriguing long-term prospect despite needing to improve his rebounding.
Veterans Reasserting Their Claim: Too Good For Summer League?
While rookies grab headlines, Summer League is also a vital platform for second-year players and seasoned veterans looking to secure roles or refine their game. Sometimes, you wonder if they`re “too good” for this level of competition, but the opportunity to lead and hone skills is invaluable. Kyle Filipowski of the Utah Jazz led the entire Summer League in scoring with 29.3 points per game. Having averaged 21 minutes as a rookie on a rebuilding team, Filipowski used Vegas to showcase his elite offensive skill set, shooting 56% overall and an impressive 39% from three-point range on high volume. He even delivered a game-tying dunk in overtime, only to be outdone by a buzzer-beater. Clearly, he`s using the stage to prepare for a larger role.
Terrence Shannon Jr., drafted 27th by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2024, looked poised to step into a bigger role after a teammate`s departure. Averaging 22.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists, Shannon’s quickness and strength allowed him to attack the basket effectively, complemented by a solid 10-of-26 (38.5%) from three. The Cleveland Cavaliers` Nae`Qwan Tomlin, a two-way player last season, stuffed the stat sheet with 20.3 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. Most notably, his nine three-pointers in four games suggest a significant improvement from his G League shooting numbers, potentially opening new avenues for his NBA career.
The Uphill Battle: Learning on the Fly
Not every Summer League performance is a highlight reel. For some, it`s a harsh introduction to the professional game. Jeremiah Fears, the New Orleans Pelicans` No. 7 pick, faced a steep learning curve. Operating amidst a giant frontcourt of fellow first-round picks, Fears struggled initially with a usage rate north of 30%, poor shooting (5-of-21 against the Lakers), and an abundance of turnovers (16 in three games against just three assists). This shoot-first style raised questions about his immediate NBA readiness. However, the Summer League is a marathon, not a sprint. Fears eventually delivered his strongest game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, posting 22 points on 8-of-15 shooting with 6 assists and only 4 turnovers, offering a glimpse of the player New Orleans hopes he will become. It`s a stark reminder that even high draft picks require significant adjustment.
Unsigned Prospects and the Pursuit of Opportunity
Beyond the drafted players, the Summer League offers a lifeline to undrafted rookies and restricted free agents desperately seeking a roster spot. Daniss Jenkins, a restricted free agent for the Detroit Pistons, built on his strong 2024 Summer League performance. Although he played only 23 minutes in the regular season, Jenkins made life difficult for opponents like Reed Sheppard, showcasing effective defense and excellent playmaking (26 assists against just seven turnovers). While his shooting efficiency remains a work in progress, his overall impact merits a longer look in the NBA. Other notable undrafted performers included Eli John N`Diaye of the Atlanta Hawks, who signed a two-way contract and showed promise before a wrist injury, and Charles Bassey, who led all players in rebounding for the Boston Celtics after three seasons with San Antonio, demonstrating that perseverance often pays off in this league.
Conclusion: More Than Just Summer Basketball
The 2025 NBA Las Vegas Summer League proved to be more than just exhibition games; it was a vibrant microcosm of the NBA itself – a blend of raw potential, seasoned skill, and the relentless pursuit of opportunity. From the dazzling displays of top picks navigating new roles to the quiet efficiency of veterans honing their craft, each performance offered a piece of the puzzle for the upcoming 2025-26 season. While no definitive conclusions can be drawn from a few summer games, the glimpses offered here suggest a dynamic rookie class and a league brimming with talent, all eager to prove their worth on the grander stage. The future, it appears, is already taking shape in the desert heat of Las Vegas.
