The 2026 NBA Las Vegas Summer League just wrapped, and if you blinked, you might have missed some serious fireworks out in Sin City. Seriously, the Golden State Warriors battled the Memphis Grizzlies in the championship game and took home the title on Sunday night, ending an insane 11-day showcase that gave us our first real look at this year’s rookie class.
The “Big Four” Lived Up to the Hype and Then Some
This year’s Summer League had a different kind of buzz, right? It was all about this incoming rookie class, absolutely stacked with talent. The hype was real from day one, especially with that opening night showdown between AJ Dybantsa and the Wizards going head-to-head with Darryn Peterson and the Jazz. People were calling it one of the most anticipated Summer League games ever, and let me tell you, it delivered. The top four picks in the draft, Dybantsa, Peterson, Cameron Boozer, and Caleb Wilson, all stepped onto the court and showed exactly why they are projected as future stars in this league. But what really made this class different was the sheer depth outside of that “Big Four.” It wasn’t just about the top guys, which is exciting for the league.
Brayden Burries Is the Real Deal, Folks
Among all that talent, one name screamed “MVP” louder than anyone else: Brayden Burries from the Milwaukee Bucks. This dude, the No. 10 overall pick from last month’s draft, absolutely showcased his ability to do a little bit of everything, and he grabbed our pick for Vegas Summer League MVP. While it’s tough for Bucks fans with Giannis Antetokounmpo heading to the Miami Heat, Burries is looking like a true building block for a rebuilding franchise ready for a new era.
Burries appeared in four games and put up some wild numbers: averaging 23.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.3 assists. What’s even crazier is how efficient he was, taking care of the basketball in what can be a chaotic Summer League environment. He can shoot, defend, playmake, rebound, and adds insane versatility playing on or off the ball. It’s exactly the role he excelled in during his freshman year at Arizona. That’s a huge positive sign for his development, and it means the Bucks have some serious hope moving forward.
Meleek Thomas Stole the Show, Too!
And don’t even get me started on Meleek Thomas, the Cavaliers’ No. 34 overall pick. This guy straight up stole the show in Vegas, putting up the best scoring output of almost anyone. He averaged 27.3 points over four games, shooting a scorching 43.8% from beyond the arc. Thomas flew under the radar at Arkansas because he was playing alongside Darius Acuff Jr., one of the best players in college ball. But his performance in Las Vegas? It showed exactly what he’s capable of. The league definitely noticed.
So, while the offseason gears up, it’s clear this rookie class is something special. We just saw a glimpse of what these future stars can do, and if Summer League is any indicator, the NBA is in for some wild seasons ahead.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
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