Charlotte Hornets rookie guard Liam McNeeley is making waves after his standout performance in the NBA Summer League, showcasing his potential to join the starting lineup alongside stars LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller.

Drafted 29th overall, McNeeley averaged impressive stats during his brief college career with UConn, leading to a multi-year Nike contract after his summer league success. His debut performance, where he scored 22 points, secured him a top-three ranking among rookies, just behind Cooper Flagg and Nique Clifford.

The Hornets' summer league championship win, highlighted by Kon Knueppel's MVP performance, sets the stage for McNeeley's promising future in the NBA.

The 2025 NBA draft class showcased its talent during the Las Vegas Summer League, headlined by the No. 1 pick, Cooper Flagg, who gained attention with a dramatic 31-point performance against the San Antonio Spurs. After struggling in his debut, Flagg’s impressive skills as a primary offensive creator were evident, particularly in facing full-court pressure. The Dallas Mavericks opted to shut him down after two games, but his impact was already felt.

No. 2 pick Dylan Harper also made waves, returning from a minor injury to demonstrate his defensive prowess and ability to draw fouls, though he struggled with his shooting from range. Meanwhile, the Chicago Bulls' No. 12 pick Noa Essengue revealed his raw talent amid the physicality of the league, while Sacramento Kings' Nique Clifford showed significant potential as a versatile asset. In addition, rookie performances from Charlotte Hornets' Liam McNeeley and Miami Heat's Kasparas Jakucionis added to a weekend filled with standout displays.

In an impressive debut during the NBA Summer League, Charlotte Hornets' rookie Liam McNeeley recorded a double-double with 22 points and 12 rebounds, leading his team to a 111-105 victory over the Utah Jazz. McNeeley shot 7-of-16 from the field and added six assists while showcasing his versatility and playmaking ability in just 28 minutes off the bench.

McNeeley's performance serves as a promising start for the Hornets' draft class, which includes Kon Knueppel, Sion James, and Ryan Kalkbrenner. With the goal of improving the team's 19-63 record from last season, McNeeley emphasizes team chemistry and aspirations for the playoffs, highlighting the Hornets' focus on development in this competitive setting.

The Charlotte Hornets have officially acquired the draft rights to Liam McNeeley, the No. 29 overall pick from the Phoenix Suns, as part of a significant trade. The deal also included the Hornets receiving a 2029 first-round pick and guard Vasa Micic, while sending center Mark Williams and a 2029 second-round pick to Phoenix. McNeeley, celebrated for his impressive college career and recognized as the Big East Freshman of the Year, is anticipated to make an immediate impact as the Hornets prepare for the upcoming NBA Summer League.

With a solid average of 14.5 points, six rebounds, and 2.3 assists during his freshman year, McNeeley's performance has drawn comparisons to established NBA stars. His career-high 38-point game showcases his potential as a scoring threat. Excited about joining the Hornets, he looks forward to collaborating with fellow draft picks and familiar opponents as he transitions into professional play.

Cooper Flagg, the Mavericks' top pick, alongside teammates Liam McNeeley, Asa Newell, and Derik Queen, made history by being part of the second quartet from Montverde Academy to be selected in the first round of the NBA draft. This powerhouse group had an impressive run, ending the season at 33-0 and winning the national championship by an average margin of 34 points.

Flagg was chosen first overall by Dallas, while Queen went 13th to the Atlanta Hawks, Newell was picked 23rd by the New Orleans Pelicans, and McNeeley rounded out the quartet at 29th with the Phoenix Suns. Shortly after being drafted, Queen, Newell, and McNeeley were traded, with Queen and Newell heading to New Orleans and Atlanta respectively, while McNeeley joined the Charlotte Hornets. Notably, this marks the second time Montverde produced four first-round picks, following the success of Cade Cunningham and others in 2021.