It’s a hot time for basketball, even in the offseason! The NBA Summer League is just around the corner, bringing a fresh wave of talent to the courts.
When Does the NBA Summer League Begin? Be Prepared for New Stars!
Basketball enthusiasts who cannot wait for action after the NBA Finals need not wait too long! The NBA Summer League is in the offing, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to catch a glimpse of new players and emerging stars.
Main Event: Las Vegas in July 2025
The largest portion of the NBA Summer League is held annually in Las Vegas, Nevada. For 2025, the primary games will be played from July 10th to July 20th.
All the games are mostly played at the Thomas & Mack Center and Cox Pavilion. All 30 NBA teams participate and send a team to Las Vegas, and they play numerous games within these days.
Previous Warm-Ups: California and Salt Lake City
In the lead-up to the main event in Las Vegas, there are typically a couple of smaller Summer Leagues that occur just a few days before:
California Classic: This league has typically got a few teams and is organized by the Golden State Warriors. In 2025, these games will take place on July 5th, 6th, and 8th.
Salt Lake City Summer League: The Utah Jazz organize their own abbreviated league. For 2025, games will be played on July 5th, 7th, and 8th.
What is the NBA Summer League For?
The NBA Summer League is not like the regular season. It’s a unique time when NBA teams are able to:
See New Rookies: Fans see players just drafted in the NBA Draft (like Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper!).
Check on Young Players: Players in their second or third year in the league tend to play in order to continue improving.
Find Hidden Gems: Players who weren’t drafted, or those who played in other leagues, attempt to impress coaches and get on an NBA roster.
Test New Things: Coaches may experiment with new plays or strategies in a less stressful setting.
It’s an action-packed, thrilling tournament where the NBA’s future stars begin to shine. So, set your calendars for early July 2025 to see it all!
Sam, a dedicated blogger, has immersed himself in the world of content creation for the past five years. His journey reflects a profound passion for storytelling and insightful commentary. Beyond the digital realm, Sam is a devoted NBA enthusiast, seamlessly blending his love for sports with his writing pursuits.