NBA Summer League Kicks Off Full 30-Team Event in Las Vegas

The NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, now a major annual event, begins with high anticipation as top prospects like Cooper Flagg and Bronny James draw national attention, with some courtside tickets surpassing $3,000 for the opening game (Article 3). The event has evolved from a small experiment in 2004 into the league's flagship summer showcase, providing key development opportunities for rookies, second-year players, and undrafted prospects, while also serving as a proving ground for assistant coaches (Article 4). For players like Drew Timme of the Nets, who impressed with a dominant performance, and rookies on the Suns emphasizing a winning culture, the league is a chance to secure roster spots and demonstrate growth ahead of the regular season (Articles 1, 2). The format requires all 30 NBA teams to play at least five games, culminating in a playoff for the top four teams (Articles 3, 4). Las Vegas’s unique all-in-one setup has made it the premier destination for NBA development, far outshining smaller summer leagues in other cities (Articles 4, 5). The event's continued success is fueling speculation about a potential permanent NBA franchise in Las Vegas (Article 5).