The 2026 NBA draft has introduced an exciting group of rookies, with standouts like AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson deserving of the top pick. They lead a class that has drawn comparisons to legends like Kobe Bryant, Scottie Pippen, and Tracy McGrady. This year’s crop promises multiple future All-Stars.

The 2026 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas is a significant event to watch. It provides the first glimpse of these rookies’ transition to professional play. History suggests that success here can influence the regular season. The Charlotte Hornets, champions of last year’s Summer League, capitalized on that momentum for their first winning season in over five years.

Here are ten games to watch in Las Vegas:

• Detroit Pistons vs. Philadelphia 76ers
  Date: Thursday, July 9, 3:30 p.m. CT, Prime Video
  Ebuka Okorie from the Pistons, the ACC’s top scorer, faces Labaron Philon Jr. of the 76ers, an exciting SEC guard. Both are crucial future pieces for their teams.
• Utah Jazz vs. Washington Wizards
  Date: Thursday, July 9, 7:00 p.m. CT, ESPN
  This game features No. 1 pick AJ Dybantsa and his rival Darryn Peterson. Fans are eager to witness their pro debut competition.
• Chicago Bulls vs. Memphis Grizzlies
  Date: Friday, July 10, 6:00 p.m. CT, Prime Video
  Cameron Boozer of the Grizzlies meets Caleb Wilson of the Bulls. Both are seen as future stars with immense potential.
• New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs
  Date: Saturday, July 11, 4:00 p.m. CT, ESPN
  A rematch of last season’s NBA Finals rivals. It showcases prospects battling for roster spots, including Carter Bryant of San Antonio.
• Atlanta Hawks vs. Brooklyn Nets
  Date: Saturday, July 11, 6:00 p.m. CT, ESPN
  An offense vs. defense clash between Mikel Brown Jr., a top scorer, and Kingston Flemings, an elite defender.
• Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Golden State Warriors
  Date: Sunday, July 12, 4:00 p.m. CT, Prime Video
  A meeting of two Michigan talents, Aday Mara and Yaxel Lendeborg, expected to play vital roles on their teams.
• Chicago Bulls vs. Utah Jazz
  Date: Monday, July 13, 7:00 p.m. CT, ESPN
  Featuring rookies Caleb Wilson and Darryn Peterson, this game offers insight into the young rosters of both teams.
• Sacramento Kings vs. Brooklyn Nets
  Date: Tuesday, July 14, 4:00 p.m. CT, Prime Video
  A matchup of explosive guards: Darius Acuff Jr. for the Kings and Brown for the Nets, with both displaying playmaking skills.
• Washington Wizards vs. Los Angeles Clippers
  Date: Wednesday, July 15, 8:30 p.m. CT, ESPN
  AJ Dybantsa faces Keaton Wagler, both top-five draft picks with outstanding abilities and plenty to prove in the league.
• Portland Trail Blazers vs. Denver Nuggets
  Date: Thursday, July 16, 8:00 p.m. CT, Prime Video
  Yang Hansen, noted for similarities to Nikola Jokic, aims to demonstrate his skills ahead of the playoff rounds.

This year’s Summer League promises thrilling competitions and a look at future NBA stars as teams assess their new talent.