The NBA Summer League is a critical opportunity for young players to showcase their talents in front of scouts, coaches, and general managers. For rookies, it’s their first chance to make a strong impression at the professional level. With the 2025 NBA draft class loaded with top-tier talent, the upcoming NBA Summer League will see many fresh faces trying to prove they are ready to make the leap to the big leagues. Some players will surprise us with their performance, while others will struggle to find their footing. In this article, we will analyze the top rookies who are most likely to use the Summer League as a springboard to gain the attention of NBA teams and secure a solid spot in the league.
1. Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs) – The Phenom Who Needs No Introduction
Background:
The 2023 NBA Draft was dominated by one name: Victor Wembanyama. Hailing from France, the 7’4″ center is one of the most hyped prospects in NBA history. With his combination of size, agility, shooting touch, and shot-blocking ability, Wembanyama is expected to be an instant game-changer for the San Antonio Spurs. There’s little doubt that he will be the focal point of the 2025 NBA Summer League for fans and scouts alike.
What to Expect:
- Defensive Dominance: Wembanyama’s ability to protect the rim and disrupt offenses is unmatched. His wingspan and shot-blocking instinct will likely be on full display during the Summer League.
- Offensive Potential: Wembanyama’s shooting range extends well beyond the three-point line, making him a matchup nightmare for any defender. His ball-handling skills for his size also make him an intriguing offensive weapon.
- Immediate Impact: Although the Summer League is a stage for rookies to refine their game, Wembanyama will likely dominate and show why he’s considered a generational talent.
Why He Will Stand Out:
With his immense talent and the Spurs’ investment in his development, Wembanyama is sure to make a strong impression during the Summer League. The expectations for him are sky-high, and he has the skill set to exceed them, making him the number one rookie to watch.
2. Scoot Henderson (Portland Trail Blazers) – The Dynamic Playmaker
Background:
Scoot Henderson is widely regarded as one of the top prospects from the 2023 NBA Draft. The 6’2″ guard played for the G League Ignite and has already proven he can compete against professional players, making him one of the most polished rookies coming into the NBA. Known for his speed, agility, and elite playmaking ability, Henderson is expected to lead the Portland Trail Blazers‘ offense alongside star guard Damian Lillard.
What to Expect:
- Explosive Athleticism: Henderson’s ability to get to the basket and finish in transition will make him an exciting player to watch in the Summer League.
- Playmaking and Leadership: Scoot’s ability to read defenses and create opportunities for his teammates will be put to the test, and his leadership on the floor will be crucial as he adjusts to NBA-level competition.
- Scoring Versatility: While Henderson’s main strength lies in his playmaking, he’s also a capable scorer. His ability to drive to the basket, hit mid-range shots, and develop a three-point shot will be something to watch during the Summer League.
Why He Will Stand Out:
Henderson’s combination of speed, vision, and scoring ability makes him a candidate to shine in the Summer League. With his experience playing against NBA-level talent in the G League, he should transition smoothly into the Summer League and show why he was a top pick.
3. Brandon Miller (Charlotte Hornets) – The Versatile Forward
Background:
Brandon Miller was selected by the Charlotte Hornets as the second overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. The 6’9″ forward from Alabama is known for his all-around game, combining shooting, passing, and defensive abilities. Miller has the size and skill set to play both forward positions, making him a valuable asset for the Hornets. As a highly touted scorer and versatile player, Miller will be a focal point for Charlotte in the 2025 NBA Summer League.
What to Expect:
- Scoring Prowess: Miller is known for his scoring ability, particularly from the three-point line. His smooth shooting stroke and ability to create his own shot will be on full display.
- Defensive Versatility: Miller’s size and agility allow him to guard multiple positions, making him a potential two-way player who can contribute on both ends of the floor.
- Playmaking: Although primarily a scorer, Miller has the ability to make plays for his teammates, and his vision will be an asset in the Summer League.
Why He Will Stand Out:
Miller’s combination of size, skill, and versatility makes him a player to watch in the Summer League. His ability to score from multiple areas of the floor and contribute defensively will likely help him stand out as one of the most promising rookies in the 2025 class.
4. Amen Thompson (Houston Rockets) – The Athletic Playmaker
Background:
Amen Thompson, along with his twin brother Ausar, was one of the top prospects in the 2023 NBA Draft. Selected by the Houston Rockets, Amen Thompson is a dynamic guard who is known for his explosiveness, athleticism, and playmaking ability. The 6’7″ guard possesses a unique combination of size, speed, and court vision, making him one of the most intriguing prospects to watch in the Summer League.
What to Expect:
- Elite Athleticism: Thompson’s quickness and agility will allow him to get to the basket with ease, and he’ll likely excel in transition, where his athleticism can shine.
- Playmaking Ability: As a point guard, Thompson has the ability to create for others, using his vision to set up teammates for easy baskets. His passing will be something to keep an eye on during the Summer League.
- Defensive Potential: Amen is also known for his defense, using his size and speed to guard multiple positions. His ability to disrupt passing lanes and make plays on that end will be crucial.
Why He Will Stand Out:
Thompson’s combination of size and athleticism makes him an exciting player to watch in the Summer League. If he can harness his playmaking abilities and continue to develop his scoring game, he has the potential to earn a prominent role with the Rockets.
5. Chet Holmgren (Oklahoma City Thunder) – The Highly Anticipated Return
Background:
Although Chet Holmgren isn’t technically a rookie in the 2025 NBA Summer League, he will be making his long-awaited debut after missing his entire 2022-2023 season due to an injury. Holmgren, selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder with the second overall pick in the 2022 Draft, has been one of the most highly anticipated young prospects due to his unique combination of size and skill. The 7’0″ center is known for his elite shot-blocking, ability to stretch the floor, and high basketball IQ.
What to Expect:
- Shot-Blocking and Defense: Holmgren’s ability to protect the rim will be on full display, and he could dominate the paint in the Summer League.
- Shooting and Scoring: Holmgren’s ability to hit three-pointers and stretch the floor for a player of his size is rare. His offensive game, including post moves and ball-handling, will be something to keep an eye on.
- Mobility and Agility: For a player his size, Holmgren’s agility is impressive. His ability to move quickly on both ends of the floor will make him a standout in Summer League action.
Why He Will Stand Out:
Holmgren has been a highly anticipated prospect for years, and his Summer League performance will likely be one of the most-watched in 2025. If he’s healthy and performs as expected, he will be a key player for the Thunder and could potentially make an immediate impact in the NBA.
6. Ausar Thompson (Detroit Pistons) – The Twin Who Brings Energy and Versatility
Background:
Like his brother Amen, Ausar Thompson was one of the top prospects in the 2023 draft. He was selected by the Detroit Pistons, and the 6’7″ wing has the athleticism, size, and playmaking ability to make a significant impact on both ends of the floor. Known for his defense and leadership, Ausar will be a player to watch during the 2025 NBA Summer League as he tries to carve out a role on a rebuilding Pistons team.
What to Expect:
- Defensive Prowess: Ausar’s defense is his calling card, and he has the ability to guard multiple positions. His quickness and instincts make him a disruptive force on that end.
- Versatility: Ausar’s ability to contribute as a scorer, rebounder, and passer will be key to his success. He’s an all-around player who can fill multiple roles.
- Energy and Intensity: Ausar’s high motor and intensity will make him an immediate fan favorite. His hustle and determination will be on full display in the Summer League.
Why He Will Stand Out:
Ausar Thompson’s blend of defensive skills, versatility, and energy makes him a player to watch in the Summer League. He may not have the same offensive ceiling as some other rookies, but his all-around game and high effort will earn him the attention of NBA scouts.
Conclusion: The 2025 NBA Summer League Is Set to Be Exciting
The 2025 NBA Summer League will showcase a group of talented rookies eager to prove they belong in the NBA. From the generational talent of Victor Wembanyama to the dynamic playmaking of Scoot Henderson and the versatile scoring ability of Brandon Miller, there will be no shortage of exciting performances. As these young players compete for spots on their NBA teams, fans can expect to see breakout performances and intense competition as the future of the NBA begins to take shape.
For these rookies, the 2025 Summer League will be a crucial proving ground—a chance to prove they’re ready to make an impact in the NBA and carve out their place in the league.
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