The Miami Heat emerged as champions in the 2025 Las Vegas Summer League, with the thrilling final game requiring an Elam ending in overtime. Standout performances from players like GG Jackson and Scottie Pippen Jr. showcased their skills in a setting where they were the focal points. The Summer League serves as a platform for both rookies and veterans to showcase their talents and elevate their game, with several players seizing the opportunity over the course of 11 days in Vegas.
While only a select few players may transition into potential fantasy basketball assets, the standout performers from the opening weekend have set the tone for the rest of the Vegas Summer League. Here are some risers and fallers to keep an eye on:
NBA Summer League Risers:
- Matas Buzelis – Forward, Chicago Bulls: The young rookie made waves with his performance, showcasing his skills on both ends of the court and potentially earning immediate playing time.
- Kel’el Ware – Center, Miami Heat: Ware stood out as an impressive big man, contributing significantly to the Heat’s success in Vegas.
- Brandin Podziemski – Guard, Golden State Warriors: Podziemski’s standout performance in the Summer League highlighted his potential as a key player for the Warriors next season.
- Karlo Matković – Forward/Center, New Orleans Pelicans: Despite being a lesser-known pick, Matković’s impact on both ends of the floor earned him a promising three-year deal with the Pelicans.
- Donovan Clingan – Center, Portland Trail Blazers: Clingan’s dominant presence in the paint foreshadows a potential impactful rookie season with the Trail Blazers.
Others Who Impressed But Lack Fantasy Relevance Yet:
- Alex Sarr – Forward/Center, Washington Wizards
- Jordan Hawkins – Guard, New Orleans Pelicans
- MarJon Beauchamp – Forward, Milwaukee Bucks
- Marcus Sasser – Guard, Detroit Pistons
- Yves Missi – Center, New Orleans Pelicans
Summer League Fallers:
- Alex Sarr – Forward/Center, Washington Wizards: Despite showing promise defensively, Sarr struggled offensively and will need to refine his game to become a reliable contributor.
- Jordan Hawkins – Guard, New Orleans Pelicans: Hawkins failed to live up to expectations in the Summer League, raising concerns about his potential impact next season.
- MarJon Beauchamp – Forward, Milwaukee Bucks: Beauchamp’s inefficiencies and poor decision-making have hindered his chances of cracking the rotation, dampening his fantasy prospects.
- Marcus Sasser – Guard, Detroit Pistons: Sasser’s struggles with turnovers and shooting inefficiencies have raised doubts about his role in the Pistons’ lineup moving forward.
- Yves Missi – Center, New Orleans Pelicans: Missi’s underwhelming performance compared to his peers like Matković has diminished his chances of earning significant minutes in the upcoming season.
Overall, the Vegas Summer League served as a platform for emerging talents to shine and for established players to hone their skills, setting the stage for an exciting NBA season ahead.