The NBA's Las Vegas Summer League concluded with an electrifying series of games that left fans and analysts buzzing. The Miami Heat emerged victorious, clinching the title on Monday night and capping off an event that lasted nearly two weeks.
Standout Performers
Throughout the league, certain players distinguished themselves with outstanding performances. Jordan Miller of the Los Angeles Clippers was one of the most remarkable players on the court. Over five games, Miller averaged an impressive 25.4 points. His standout moment came against the Denver Nuggets, where he put up 36 points, shooting 52.9% from the floor and hitting eight of his 20 attempts from beyond the arc.
Jalen Wilson of the Brooklyn Nets also made his mark, being named the NBA's Summer League MVP. Wilson averaged 21.8 points over five games and was additionally honored by being voted second-team all-summer league. This follows his rookie season, where he averaged 5.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.0 assists over 43 games.
Reed Sheppard emerged as a defensive stalwart, recording 11 steals in just four games. His long-range shooting, though inconsistent, showed promise as he hit five of 18 three-point attempts.
Rising Talents
Dalton Knecht made contributions for the Los Angeles Lakers, while Alex Sarr, playing for the Washington Wizards, averaged 5.5 points in his four games. Carlton Carrington had a particularly noteworthy game against the Bucks, totaling 13 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and two steals. Speculation about his potential led one observer to note, "There could be a world where Carrington has the best rookie season of any of his Wizards teammates -- including No. 2 overall pick Alex Sarr."
Memorable Games
The title game featured some stellar performances despite the Heat's victory. Scotty Pippen Jr. scored 29 points in the loss but had shown his all-around abilities earlier by recording a triple-double with 23 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists in a win over the Clippers. Kel'el Ware was another standout, with 21 points and 10 rebounds in the title game. Ware was consistent throughout the summer league, scoring at least 11 points in all eight games in Las Vegas and at the California Classic.
Donovan Clingan demonstrated his defensive prowess, averaging 8.8 rebounds and 4.3 blocks in just under 26 minutes per game. He also showed some range by making three three-pointers over the course of the league.
Consistent Contributors
Matas Buzelis was a model of consistency, scoring in double digits in all five of his games in Vegas. His top performance included a 28-point, five-rebound, and two-steal game against the Warriors. GG Jackson also shone brightly, scoring 28 points, grabbing nine rebounds, and nabbing two steals in the title game loss to Miami.
Tristan da Silva turned heads by averaging 17.7 points, five rebounds, three assists, and 1.3 steals across three games. He was efficient from the field, shooting a remarkable 60.7%, and was deadly from three-point range, hitting 58.8% of his attempts.
The Las Vegas Summer League once again showcased the NBA's emerging talent. As these players continue to develop and refine their games, their Summer League performances provide a glimpse of the league's exciting future.