The 2025 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas showcased a plethora of promising talent, with several players making a strong case for impact roles in the upcoming 2025-26 NBA season. From high-scoring sharpshooters to dynamic playmakers and versatile big men, these standouts demonstrated skill sets that could transform their teams and fantasy basketball rosters alike. Below are five of the most compelling summer league performers whose seasons merit close attention.
Kyle Filipowski, Utah Jazz (PF/C)
The clear MVP of the Summer League, Kyle Filipowski lit up the court with electrifying offensive production. Over three games, Filipowski averaged an impressive 29.3 points per game while adding 7.7 rebounds and 2.3 assists. His shooting was particularly notable, draining nine three-pointers and displaying a polished, fluid shooting stroke that belies his size. Analysts praised Filipowski’s improved shot preparation and release, highlighting his development into a legitimate floor-spacing big man. As basketball analyst Mike Prada put it, "Filipowski doesn’t just look like a shooter for a big he looks like a true shooter" which could open up Utah’s offense considerably.
Yang Hansen, Portland Trail Blazers (C)
Dubbed the "Chinese Jokić," Yang Hansen caught eyes for his elite passing ability and overall versatility. Averaging 10.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game, Hansen’s playmaking was his calling card. His vision and passing remind scouts of Nikola Jokić’s style, suggesting he could become a key facilitator in Portland’s offense beyond just traditional big-man roles. As ESPN's Rich Cimini noted, "Yang is a player you stay up late to watch on NBA League Pass," underscoring his excitement-generating potential. His unique skill set could make him a transformative player in the Blazers' system.
Nique Clifford, Sacramento Kings (SG)
A standout in the highly competitive Las Vegas Summer League final, Nique Clifford’s blend of scoring and defensive tenacity has positioned him as a rising two-way threat. Clifford’s aggression and ability to create off the dribble earned him praise from coaches and analysts. He displayed consistent shooting efficiency and a knack for clutch plays, making him a candidate to make the Kings' rotation as a valuable scoring spark off the bench.
Terrence Shannon Jr., Chicago Bulls (SG/SF)
Another noted summer league first-teamer, Shannon Jr. averaged 29.3 points, ranking among the top scorers in the tournament. His combination of size, athleticism, and shooting range helps him fill multiple roles on the court. Bulls’ staff have noted his improved decision-making and off-ball movement, which could translate to regular-season impact minutes. With Chicago looking to deepen their wing rotation, Shannon Jr. stands out as a player who could contribute immediately.
David Jones-Garcia, San Antonio Spurs (SG)
Known for his scoring punch and defensive instincts, Jones-Garcia was also named to the Summer League First Team. The Spurs have long been lauded for their player development, and Jones-Garcia looks poised to be the latest beneficiary. With a chip on his shoulder and a steadily improving skill set, he embodies the Spurs' culture of toughness and basketball IQ, potentially carving out a key role as a two-way guard.
Expert Insights and Implications for the 2025-26 Season
NBA scouts and analysts emphasize the significance of strong summer league performances for young players and sophomores alike. As Matt Geisler, a noted NBA draft analyst, remarked, "Summer league is where hidden gems emerge and players stake their claim for rotation minutes. Filipowski and Hansen are two names you’ll be hearing all season" . These performances not only impact roster decisions but can also shift the expectations for team strategies and rotations.
Moreover, the skill diversification such as Filipowski’s shooting or Hansen’s passing from the big man position reflects the evolving NBA, where versatility is paramount. Teams that maximize these players’ unique talents could gain unexpected edges during the regular season and into the playoffs.
The 2025 NBA Summer League has illuminated several players whose game-changing potential could elevate their teams dramatically. Kyle Filipowski’s scoring and shooting prowess, Yang Hansen’s playmaking, and the dynamic scoring skills of Nique Clifford, Terrence Shannon Jr., and David Jones-Garcia present compelling cases for breakout seasons. As these young talents transition into the regular season, their development and integration will be key storylines in a year where fresh energy and new stars could reshape the NBA landscape.
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