Walking into the NBA Summer League always feels like stepping into a crystal ball for basketball junkies like me. I’ve followed this event for years, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the Summer League isn’t just a series of exhibition games—it’s where future stars plant their flags. This year, the 2023 NBA Summer League roster is stacked with promising talent, and I can’t wait to break down the key players you should keep your eyes on. From lottery picks looking to prove their worth to undrafted gems fighting for a spot, the energy in Las Vegas is absolutely electric.
Let me start by saying that what fascinates me most about the Summer League is how it mirrors developmental leagues in other sports. Take, for instance, the situation with Robins-Hardy in the Premier Volleyball League. Amid her ongoing PVL playing eligibility saga, she’s taken on assistant coaching roles for SGA-backed teams ahead of her expected entry in the 2025 PVL Draft. It’s a smart move, really—staying involved, learning the ropes from the sidelines, and building experience even when you can’t be on the court. That kind of strategic patience is something I see echoed in the NBA Summer League, where young athletes use this platform not just to play, but to grow into their professional identities. It’s not always about the flashy dunks or highlight reels; sometimes, it’s about the subtle improvements, the coaching they absorb, and the resilience they build when the lights are bright.
Now, diving into the 2023 roster, there are a few names that have me particularly excited. Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs’ No. 1 pick, is obviously the headliner. Standing at 7'4" with guard-like skills, he’s a generational talent, and I’ll be honest—I’ve been hyping him up since his days in France. But what many casual fans might overlook is how the Spurs are managing his development. They’re likely to limit his minutes, maybe around 20-25 per game, to ease him into the NBA pace while focusing on his conditioning. Then there’s Scoot Henderson, drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers at No. 3. I’ve watched his G League Ignite footage, and his explosiveness is off the charts. He averaged 16.5 points and 6.8 assists in the Ignite’s last season, and I expect him to dominate the Summer League, especially in transition plays. But let’s not forget the underdogs—players like Emoni Bates, who went undrafted but landed with the Cleveland Cavaliers on a two-way contract. His journey reminds me of Robins-Hardy’s path; both are navigating setbacks and using alternative routes to prove their worth. Bates, for example, shot 38% from three-point range in college, and if he can maintain that efficiency, he could be a steal.
Beyond the individual talents, I’m always intrigued by how teams use the Summer League to test strategies and build chemistry. The Golden State Warriors, for instance, have a roster filled with G League standouts and second-round picks like Brandin Podziemski. As a fan of team dynamics, I love watching how these squads blend raw talent with structured plays. Last year, the Sacramento Kings’ Summer League team impressed me with their ball movement, averaging over 24 assists per game, and I’m curious if they can replicate that success. On the other hand, the Los Angeles Lakers often use this stage to evaluate role players—guys like Max Christie, who showed flashes of defensive prowess last season. From a coaching perspective, it’s a goldmine. I remember chatting with a scout who told me that Summer League performances can influence up to 30% of roster decisions for the regular season. That’s why I pay close attention to stats like player efficiency ratings and defensive ratings; they often hint at who’s ready for the big league.
Of course, the Summer League isn’t without its critics. Some argue it’s overhyped, with inflated stats against weaker competition. But I disagree—strongly. Having attended multiple Summer League events, I’ve seen firsthand how the intensity rivals regular-season games, especially in the final minutes of close contests. Take last year’s championship game between the Portland Trail Blazers and New York Knicks; it went down to the wire, with Keon Johnson hitting a game-winning three-pointer. Moments like that aren’t just entertaining—they’re formative for these young athletes. It’s similar to how Robins-Hardy is gaining invaluable experience as an assistant coach in the PVL. Even if she’s not playing, she’s absorbing game plans, learning how to manage players, and positioning herself for a stronger draft entry in 2025. In the NBA, we see parallels with players who use Summer League to transition into leadership roles, like Tyrese Haliburton did a couple of years back.
As we wrap up, I’ll leave you with this: the 2023 NBA Summer League is more than a preview—it’s a proving ground. From Wembanyama’s anticipated debut to the gritty efforts of undrafted players, every game tells a story of ambition and growth. And if you’re like me, someone who loves the behind-the-scenes narratives as much as the on-court action, you’ll appreciate how these journeys intersect with broader themes in sports, like Robins-Hardy’s coaching stint. So grab your popcorn, check the schedules, and don’t be surprised if you spot the next breakout star. After all, I’ve always believed that legends aren’t just born in the playoffs; they’re forged in summers like this one.
