SPORTS

Rising Stars Shine Bright in NBA 2K26 Summer League

Las Vegas, USASat Jul 12 2025

The NBA 2K26 Summer League in Las Vegas showcased impressive performances from both rookies and returning players.

Standout Performances

Kobe Bufkin - Atlanta Hawks

  • Points: 29
  • Free Throws: 15
  • Rebounds: 3
  • Assists: 3
  • Blocks: 2
  • Result: 105-98 win against the Heat

Bufkin's athleticism helped him draw fouls and contribute significantly to the team's victory. Despite being in his third NBA season, injuries have limited his playing time to just 27 games so far.

Liam McNeeley - Charlotte Hornets

  • Points: 22
  • Rebounds: 12
  • 3-Point Shots Made: 3/5
  • Result: 111-105 win against the Jazz

McNeeley made a strong debut, leading the team in scoring and rebounding. His performance helped the Hornets secure a victory over the Jazz.

Kyle Filipowski - Utah Jazz

  • Points: 32 (Summer League high)
  • Rebounds: 6
  • Assists: 5
  • Result: 111-105 loss against the Hornets

Filipowski had a remarkable game despite the loss. His strong performances in both Salt Lake and Las Vegas have exceeded expectations as he enters his sophomore season.

A. J. Lawson - Toronto Raptors

  • Points: 22
  • Rebounds: 6
  • 3-Point Shots Made: 4/8
  • Result: 116-72 win against the Bulls

Lawson showcased his versatility, scoring both inside and outside the paint.

Ron Holland II - Detroit Pistons

  • Points: 28
  • Rebounds: 11
  • 3-Point Shots Made: 3/3
  • Result: 104-86 win against the Knicks

Holland had a dominant third quarter, scoring 18 points and making all three of his 3-point attempts.

Reed Sheppard - Houston Rockets

  • Points: 28
  • Rebounds: 8
  • Assists: 4
  • Steals: 4
  • Blocks: 3
  • 3-Point Percentage: 40% (15 attempts)
  • Result: 95-92 loss against the Pistons

Sheppard's strong performance suggests he will play a bigger role for the Rockets this season.

questions

    In what ways could Liam McNeeley's two-way playing style influence the Charlotte Hornets' defensive and offensive strategies this season?
    If Kobe Bufkin keeps drawing fouls like he did in the Summer League, will referees start wearing helmets for protection?
    Is Kyle Filipowski's impressive Summer League showing a result of his natural talent, or is there something more sinister at play?

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