LAS VEGAS – While the NBA 2K26 Summer League gave rookies their first experiences in the NBA, second-year players from the 2024 NBA Draft also had opportunities to shine.
Having gained valuable experience through playing time, development in the G League, or ascending the Kia Rookie Ladder, these players enhanced their skills in Las Vegas.
Here’s a highlight of the standout sophomores (listed alphabetically by last name):
1. Ron Holland II, Detroit Pistons
Ron Holland II, selected as the No. 5 pick in the 2024 Draft, is geared up for a breakout season as the Pistons strive for deeper playoff competition.
Holland II had a solid rookie year, participating in 81 games and averaging 6.4 points while demonstrating defensive promise. Notably, he excelled against the Rockets on July 13, scoring 15 points along with three rebounds and three steals in a 98-83 victory. Over three games, he averaged 21.7 points with a 46.7% shooting rate from beyond the arc.
With the departure of players like Dennis Schröder, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Simone Fontecchio through free agency, expect Holland II to fill the void in his second year.
2. Bronny James, Los Angeles Lakers
After a strong performance at the California Classic, Bronny James built on that success in Las Vegas. The key difference was his confidence; he appeared more at ease managing the offense and continued his excellent shooting from the 3-point range.
Despite the Lakers’ loss to the Clippers on July 14, James stood out, delivering a complete game with 17 points, five rebounds, five assists, and three 3-pointers. Over three games, he averaged 16.3 points, 4.3 assists, and 2.6 rebounds, effectively involving his teammates and initiating scoring runs.
3. Yuki Kawamura, Chicago Bulls
After a solid rookie season with the Memphis Grizzlies, where Yuki Kawamura played 22 games, he aimed to make an impact with the Bulls in Las Vegas.
His excellent court vision and pass-first mentality earned him steady bench minutes. Kawamura shined as he led the Bulls to a 105-92 win against the Utah Jazz on July 18, scoring 20 points and recording 10 assists highlighted by flashy passes and 3-point shooting. Following Summer League, the Bulls signed him to a two-way contract; he averaged 10.2 points, 6.2 assists, and 2.4 rebounds during the week.
Yuki Kawamura put on a show tonight in Las Vegas:
🤩 20 points
🤩 10 assists
🤩 6-9 from downtown
🤩 6-11 from the floor pic.twitter.com/nHSLSvvZrG— NBA (@NBA) July 19, 2025
4. Alexandre Sarr, Washington Wizards
Alex Sarr, who finished third in the 2024-25 Kia Rookie Ladder, continued to grow and demonstrate leadership during Summer League. He averaged 1.5 blocks in his rookie season and maintained defensive prowess, setting a new Summer League record with eight blocks on July 13, alongside 16 points and 12 rebounds, including a crucial block on a potential game-winning shot.
ALEX SARR: DOMINANT DEFENSIVE PERFORMANCE
Watch all 8 blocks from the 2024 No. 2 pick 👏😤 pic.twitter.com/Le5agjNpiL
— NBA (@NBA) July 14, 2025
5. Terrence Shannon Jr., Minnesota Timberwolves
Terrence Shannon Jr., the No. 24 pick in the 2024 Draft, showcased why Minnesota Timberwolves coach Chris Finch trusted him with playoff minutes during his rookie year.
In a challenging 3-0 deficit during the Western Conference Finals, Shannon Jr. provided a crucial lift off the bench. His active presence proved pivotal in a crucial Game 3 and further fueled his Summer League development.
In the Timberwolves’ 94-83 win over the Nuggets, he delivered a standout performance with 24 points, including five 3-pointers, and managed to score over 20 points in three consecutive Summer League games. With the continuity the Wolves are aiming for after a second consecutive trip to the conference finals, Shannon Jr. could play a vital role on the wing with consistent minutes.
