The Houston Rockets wrapped up their participation in the 2025 NBA Summer League with a disappointing 1-4 record, but they managed to conclude with a win against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Second-year guard Reed Sheppard led the team in scoring, averaging 23 points over two games despite dealing with calf soreness. Kennedy Chandler also showcased his potential, averaging 18.2 points across five games, while Adonis Arms made a solid debut as a rookie, contributing 15.5 points. The Rockets are now looking towards training camp and potential roster adjustments, particularly with players like N'Faly Dante and Kevon Harris likely to join the main squad.

The Memphis Grizzlies faced the Atlanta Hawks in a closely contested summer league matchup, ultimately falling short with a score of 92-88. The Grizzlies managed to battle back from a 14-point deficit, tying the game late in the fourth quarter, showcasing resilience despite their 1-3 record in Las Vegas. A concerning moment came when rookie Jahmai Mashack injured his ankle while attempting a dunk in the game's final moments, leaving his status uncertain.

With Jaylen Wells sidelined for the remainder of the summer league, the Grizzlies adjusted their lineup, starting Mashack alongside Javon Small, Cam Spencer, GG Jackson, and Will Magnay. Small returned after missing three games and delivered a team-high 17 points, supported by Spencer with 16 points and Jackson contributing 13. The Grizzlies will have one more chance to make an impact in their final summer league game.

The Houston Rockets summer league squad continued to struggle, losing their third consecutive game, this time to the Atlanta Hawks in a narrow 111-108 overtime defeat. Despite the absence of Reed Sheppard due to precautionary measures against a calf issue, Kennedy Chandler and Adonis Arms stepped up to provide a glimpse of their potential. Arms had a notable performance, scoring 24 points while contributing 7 assists and 6 rebounds. Chandler wasn’t far behind, adding 22 points, 7 assists, and 3 steals to the mix.

While neither player is on the Rockets' official roster for the upcoming season, their impressive displays could earn them a spot in training camp. Arms, a 6-foot-6 wing, has experience in the G League and internationally since going undrafted out of Texas Tech in 2022. Meanwhile, the 5-foot-11 Chandler, a second-round pick in 2022, has played sparingly for the Memphis Grizzlies, primarily residing in the G League. The Rockets will look to bounce back against the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday.

Tennessee basketball alumni are making waves at the NBA 2K26 Summer League, with nine former Vols showcasing their skills. The event runs from July 10-20 in Las Vegas, and notable names like Kennedy Chandler, who previously played for the Memphis Grizzlies and Brooklyn Nets, highlight the list. Jordan Gainey has signed with the Phoenix Suns after transferring from USC Upstate, while Josiah-Jordan James joins the Indiana Pacers. Other key players include Tyreke Key with the Toronto Raptors, Dalton Knecht drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers, and Chaz Lanier selected by the Detroit Pistons. Jahmai Mashack and Jaden Springer also bring their talents, aiming to establish themselves in the NBA.

The Los Angeles Lakers made significant moves in the 2025 NBA Draft, trading up to select Adou Thiero, a promising wing out of Arkansas, at No. 36. Thiero, who stands 6-foot-8 and weighs 220 pounds, averaged 15.1 points and 5.8 rebounds for the Razorbacks last season. Known for his athleticism, the Lakers acquired him by trading their 55th pick and cash considerations to the Chicago Bulls for the 45th pick, which they subsequently traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Despite needing a center, the Lakers prioritized adding athleticism to their wing position to complement star Luka Dončić. Thiero is compared to OG Anunoby, a three-and-D type player, and the Lakers are optimistic about his shooting development. In other news, Austin Reaves declined a maximum contract offer from the Lakers, indicating his intention to explore free agency after his career-best season.