The 2024 NBA draft class made its debut at the Las Vegas Summer League, showcasing the talents of this year's 58 draftees. The event drew basketball enthusiasts from around the globe to witness the young prospects in action at UNLV's Thomas and Mack Center and Cox Pavilion.
The top picks, including Zaccharie Risacher, Alex Sarr, and Reed Sheppard, took the spotlight with impressive performances. Sarr displayed his versatility with 12 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 blocks, showcasing his agility and offensive skills. Risacher, the No. 1 pick, demonstrated his shotmaking ability and all-around skill level, hitting key shots and displaying his playmaking prowess.
Former UConn teammates Donovan Clingan and Stephon Castle faced off, providing insights into their potential roles in the NBA. Castle showed promise in scoring and playmaking, while Clingan's defensive presence was notable despite a quiet offensive performance.
Sheppard, the No. 3 pick, exceeded expectations with impressive stats and shooting prowess, making an impact in his first two games. Bub Carrington of the Washington Wizards and Terrence Shannon Jr. of the Minnesota Timberwolves also stood out with strong performances, showcasing their potential contributions to their respective teams.
As the summer league unfolds, young talents like Cody Williams of the Utah Jazz, Ryan Dunn of the Phoenix Suns, and Dalton Knecht of the Los Angeles Lakers are making their mark with standout plays on both ends of the court.
The NBA Summer League continues to be a platform for emerging talents to shine and for teams to evaluate their rosters ahead of the upcoming season. Fans can catch the action on various platforms, including ABC, ESPN, and the ESPN app, as the young prospects aim to make their mark in the league.