NBA Summer League 2026 kicks off in Las Vegas

The 2026 NBA Summer League began on July 9 in Las Vegas, Nevada, featuring 76 games across the Thomas & Mack Center and Cox Pavilion. All 30 NBA franchises are participating, showcasing the rookie class from the 2026 Draft, including No. 1 pick AJ Dybantsa (Washington Wizards) and No. 2 pick Darryn Peterson (Utah Jazz) who face each other in the opening night matchup.

Broadcast coverage is provided by ESPN networks and Prime Video, with 38 games on each platform and commentary from Dave Pasch, Doris Burke, Stan Van Gundy and others. The Summer League also includes a Creator Cup featuring influencers such as Jenna Bandy, and sidelines events that draw fans to interact with players and creators.

Teams are using the league as a talent evaluation platform: the Chicago Bulls highlighted rookie Caleb Wilson and other lottery picks, the Cleveland Cavaliers focused on rookie Meleek Thomas, and the Boston Celtics held a practice session where coach Joe Mazzulla discussed the recent Jaylen Brown trade. The event serves both as a showcase for emerging players and a venue for teams to assess roster options ahead of the regular season.