NBA Summer League: Bronny James, Zach Edey and more players to watch
Bronny James Jr. of the Los Angeles Lakers in the California Classic summer league game against the Sacramento Kings at Chase Center on July 6, 2024 in San Francisco. Credit: Getty Images/Thearon W. Henderson
The NBA 2K25 Summer League starts Friday in Las Vegas and it’s the first chance for fans to enjoy this rookie class.
There was plenty to say about the lack of star power in this year’s draft. Now fans can see who shows the potential to be somebody. There also are second-year players who’ll look to improve their game and free agents aiming to get a chance somewhere.
Here are five players to keep an eye on, with the first coming as no surprise.
Bronny James, Lakers
Last year, it was Victor Wembanyama. This year, it’s James who has all eyes on him -despite the fact that he’s the No. 55 pick. But when you’re the son of LeBron James, the crowd follows.
Bronny James is an intriguing prospect after one year at USC. He’s been praised for good IQ and defense, but at 6-foot-2, there are questions about his point guard skills and jump shot. He’s probably going to spend more time in the G League than on the Lakers’ roster, so this will be fans’ best chance to see how he looks.
Zach Edey, Grizzlies
For the second consecutive summer, there’s a 7-4 giant standing above his peers. Just like Wembanyama, Edey commands attention, and at 305 pounds, he’s nearly 100 pounds heavier than Wemby.
The two-time National Player of the Year from Purdue is the first-round pick most casual fans know. He’s a throwback player anchored in the post as a scorer and rebounder, but has potential as an elite screen setter for pick-and-roll chances.
How will that old school game mesh in a faster NBA? We’ll find out, but Edey’s size and skill is must-see TV.
Zaccharie Risacher, Hawks
Most years, the No. 1 overall pick is the star heading into Summer League. But most fans still know little about Risacher, besides his French background.
So who is he? Well the 6-9 forward can shoot and handle the ball well. He’s a solid defender. But the mystery adds to his intrigue. Fans should look for him just because rare is the No. 1 pick with this much anonymity.
He’ll also have a great chance to prove himself early. The Hawks’ first game is Friday against the Wizards, who have No. 2 pick and fellow Frenchman Alex Sarr.
Brandon Miller, Hornets
Miller is the highest-drafted player from last year’s rookie class to return to Las Vegas. The former No. 2 overall pick was third in Rookie of the Year voting and an All-Rookie first-team selection.
So why is Miller playing after averaging 17.3 points last season? Maybe he wants to work on some skills. It’s a win for fans who want some name recognition, but don’t expect him to play more than two games.
If Miller’s as good as expected, he’ll watch some games from the sidelines like the other NBA vets who come to town.
Reed Sheppard, Rockets
This spot could go to another top college player. Maybe a two-time NCAA champion like Stephon Castle (Spurs) or Donovan Clingan (Trail Blazers)? Perhaps the Lakers’ other rookie, Dalton Knecht, who can score from anywhere?
But, let’s go with Sheppard, the No. 3 overall pick. At Kentucky last season, the 6-2 guard shot an astounding 52.3% from three-point range, making him a prime candidate to catch fire in a game.
Sheppard’s also athletic. So if fans want to see the son of two former Kentucky basketball players who can light it up from beyond the arc, check out Sheppard.
Evan Barnes covers the Nets for Newsday. He previously covered Memphis football and the Memphis Grizzlies and also covered prep sports in Los Angeles.
