NBA Summer League Launches Las Vegas with 30 Teams, Top Draft Picks

The 2025 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas is set to begin on July 10 and run through July 20, featuring notable players such as Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 draft pick, and Bronny James, son of LeBron James, with their teams, the Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers, respectively, facing off in the opening game. The event, held at UNLV's Thomas & Mack Center and Cox Pavilion, attracts significant attention with high ticket prices and a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of past star debuts like Victor Wembanyama and Zion Williamson. Seven former UCLA players, including Amari Bailey, Jules Bernard, Adem Bona, Moses Brown, and Jaylen Clark, are participating, with several having NBA experience and some making return appearances in the Summer League. Meanwhile, the Nevada Wolf Pack men's basketball team is preparing for an international offseason trip to the Bahamas from July 30 to August 6, taking part in the Baha Mar Hoops Summer League with two exhibition games scheduled against the University of Calgary and the Bahamas National Team. This trip, led by coach Steve Alford, is significant for team development, especially with many new players and staff, allowing for additional untimed practices under NCAA rules. Both the NBA Summer League and Nevada's international tour highlight key opportunities for player growth and exposure ahead of the upcoming basketball season.