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LAS VEGAS – The NBA 2K26 Summer League not only gave rookies a chance to experience their first moments in the NBA, but it also allowed second-year players from the 2024 NBA Draft to showcase their skills.
These athletes have honed their abilities through meaningful playing time, G League development, or advancements on the Kia Rookie Ladder, using their experiences in Las Vegas to elevate their performance.
Here’s a breakdown of the standout sophomores (listed in alphabetical order by last name):
Ron Holland II, selected as the No. 5 pick in the 2024 Draft, is gearing up for an impressive season as the Pistons aim to make a deeper playoff push.
Holland II had a commendable rookie year, participating in 81 games and averaging 6.4 points while demonstrating his defensive capabilities. He turned in an outstanding performance against the Rockets on July 13, contributing 15 points, three rebounds, and three steals in a 98-83 victory. Over three games, he averaged 21.7 points with a solid 46.7% shooting from beyond the arc.
With the departures of key players like Dennis Schröder, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Simone Fontecchio during free agency, expect Holland II to step up in his second year.
Bronny James, having showcased his talent at the California Classic, carried that momentum into Las Vegas, exuding newfound confidence as he ran the offense and maintained effective 3-point shooting.
Despite the Lakers’ loss to the Clippers on July 14, James stood out with a well-rounded performance, tallying 17 points, five rebounds, five assists, and three successful 3-pointers. He averaged 16.3 points, 4.3 assists, and 2.6 rebounds over three games, demonstrating his ability to engage his teammates and ignite scoring runs.
After a promising rookie season with the Memphis Grizzlies where Yuki Kawamura played in 22 games, the second-year player from Japan joined the Bulls in Vegas, eager to leave his mark.
Kawamura’s keen court awareness and pass-first mentality earned him significant time off the bench. He electrified the crowd while leading the Bulls to a 105-92 victory against the Utah Jazz on July 18, scoring 20 points and providing 10 assists with a mix of dazzling passes and effective 3-point shooting.
Following the Summer League, the Bulls signed Kawamura to a two-way contract, as he averaged 10.2 points, 6.2 assists, and 2.4 rebounds during the event.
Yuki Kawamura dazzled the crowd in Las Vegas with:
🤩 20 points
🤩 10 assists
🤩 6-of-9 shooting from beyond the arc
🤩 6-of-11 overall shooting
pic.twitter.com/nHSLSvvZrG
— NBA (@NBA) July 19, 2025
For a player who ranked third on the 2024-25 Kia Rookie Ladder, Alex Sarr embraced the opportunity in Summer League to further develop his game and leadership abilities. After averaging 1.5 blocks during his rookie year, Sarr continued to make his mark on defense. He set a new Summer League record by blocking eight shots on July 13, including one that could have won the game, finishing with 16 points and 12 rebounds.
ALEX SARR: AN IMPRESSIVE DEFENSIVE DISPLAY
Watch all 8 of his blocks from the No. 2 pick of 2024 👏😤 pic.twitter.com/Le5agjNpiL
— NBA (@NBA) July 14, 2025
Terrence Shannon Jr., the 24th overall pick in the 2024 Draft, demonstrated why Minnesota Timberwolves coach Chris Finch entrusted him with significant playoff minutes in his rookie season.
After falling behind 3-0 in the Western Conference Finals, Shannon Jr. injected a vital burst of energy off the bench. His active presence was crucial in a pivotal Game 3 and served as a solid foundation for his growth during the Summer League.
In the Timberwolves’ 94-83 victory over the Nuggets, Shannon Jr. had a standout game with 24 points, including five successful 3-pointers. He also scored over 20 points in three consecutive Summer League outings. With the Timberwolves focusing on building continuity after their second consecutive trip to the conference finals, Shannon Jr. could strengthen the wing rotation with consistent playing time.
