For the duration of the summer, we will provide daily recaps of all NBA Summer League action here.
NBA Summer League Rookie Recaps: California Classic Kickoff
The 2024 California Classic began with games at both the Chase Center and the Golden 1 Center. Fans witnessed four contests featuring two different Sacramento Kings teams, the Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, Charlotte Hornets, and San Antonio Spurs.
Below, you will find stats and analysis of the rookies selected in the 2024 NBA Draft. Absent from the action were Charlotte Hornets’ selections Tidjane Salaun (sixth overall) and injured second rounder KJ Simpson (42nd overall), Sacramento Kings’ lottery pick Devin Carter, and Golden State Warriors’ 52nd overall pick Quinten Post.
First Round Picks
Stephon Castle, Spurs (4th Overall Pick)
Stephon Castle led the Spurs with 12 points in their first NBA summer league game. Though he struggled with efficiency, shooting 4/12 from the field. Despite the team’s 32-point defeat, Castle showed promise by connecting on two of his four three-point attempts. Additionally, he contributed six rebounds, three assists, and only one turnover. These glimpses highlight why San Antonio sees him as a key piece alongside Victor Wembanyama for the future.
Kel’el Ware, Heat (15th Overall Pick)
Kel’el Ware matched Castle’s 12 points, but the Miami Heat suffered a heavy 105-66 loss to the Golden State Warriors to open NBA summer league action. Ware’s significant impact came on the defensive end, where he recorded five blocks in just under 25 minutes. If he can maintain this rim-protection prowess during the regular season, the Heat might have found a draft steal.
Dalton Knecht, Lakers (17th Overall Pick)
Dalton Knecht, heralded by LeBron James as the steal of the draft, had a challenging debut. He scored 12 points but struggled with his shot, going 3/12 from the field, 1/4 from three, and 5/9 at the free-throw line. The Lakers are more focused on his defensive contributions during the NBA summer league sessions. If Knecht can consistently create multiple steals, he could earn rotation minutes this season.
Second Round Picks
Pelle Larson, Heat (44th Overall Pick)
Pelle Larson took numerous shots for the Miami Heat but had difficulty finding the basket, finishing with eight points on 2/8 shooting and 1/4 from three-point range. Defensively, Larson was both effective and aggressive, tying for a team-high three steals but also committing a team-high four personal fouls. While his aggressiveness aligns with Heat Culture, he needs to refine his approach to avoid foul trouble as NBA summer league play continues.
Harrison Ingram, Spurs (48th Overall Pick)
Harrison Ingram had a tough NBA summer league debut, scoring only three points, the least among rookies playing yesterday. Despite his offensive struggles, Ingram showed his strength on the boards, grabbing seven rebounds in 26 minutes. His role as a small-ball four, similar to teammate Harrison Barnes, could see him earn significant playing time if he continues to battle effectively on the glass.
Bronny James, Lakers (55th Overall Pick)
Bronny James made his debut for the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA summer league. He started in an off-guard role rather than as the primary facilitator. While his performance was modest with four points on 2/9 shooting and missing all three of his three-point attempts, he didn’t look out of place. Given the immense hype surrounding him, not standing out negatively is a positive takeaway for his first professional game.
Conclusion
The first day of the California Classic provided fans with an exciting glimpse into the potential future stars playing in the NBA summer league. While some rookies shined and others struggled, each performance added valuable experience as they begin their professional journeys. Stay tuned for more daily recaps as the NBA Summer League continues.