With Las Vegas on the clock for an NBA franchise, Summer League takes center stage

Editor's note: Este artículo está traducido al español. The NBA Summer League has returned to Las Vegas for another edition, running from July 9 through July 19, 2026, at the Thomas & Mack Center and Cox Pavilion. Organizers describe this year’s event as one of the most consequential yet, citing both the caliber of incoming talent and the city’s ongoing pursuit of an NBA franchise. Since its debut in Las Vegas in 2004, the Summer League has produced memorable moments. Fans still recall the packed gyms of 2007 when Greg Oden and Kevin Durant made their first appearances. The excitement peaked in 2009 when Blake Griffin of the Los Angeles Clippers took the court at the Thomas & Mack Center and the adjacent Cox Pavilion. A dramatic backdrop arrived on July 5, 2019, when a 7.1‑magnitude earthquake centered in Ridgecrest, California, shook the venue during a highly anticipated game featuring Zion Williamson’s debut for the New Orleans Pelicans. This year’s roster includes a strong group of rookies: AJ Dybantsa (Washington Wizards), Darryn Peterson (Utah Jazz), Cameron Boozer (Memphis Grizzlies), Caleb Wilson (Chicago Bulls), Keaton Wagler (Los Angeles Clippers) and several other prospects viewed as future stars. Las Vegas remains a leading candidate for an NBA expansion team. The league voted earlier this year to study adding two franchises, with Seattle and Las Vegas front‑runners. Albert Hall, co‑founder of the Summer League, emphasized the city’s role: “The metropolis has been large to us,” he said. “They’ve shown retired for (the Summer League) to affirm they tin enactment a franchise. That’s been our emphasis.” Commissioner Adam Silver has long described the 10‑day competition as the league’s 31st franchise. Hall also noted the event’s communal importance: “It’s our babe — and not conscionable to me,” he says. “It takes a village. Everyone is invested.” Economic impact continues to grow. Officials estimate the Summer League generates roughly $275 million for the region. This year’s schedule features 76 games, with more than 136,000 fans expected to attend the Thomas & Mack Center and Cox Pavilion. The league’s reach now includes all 30 teams, a milestone reached in 2018 after the Orlando edition ended and the Long Beach program closed following its 38‑season run in 2007. Only six franchises participated in the inaugural 2004 edition. Beyond the scoreboard, the Summer League engages the community. More than 500 local youths, leaders and special guests take part in halftime activations, theme nights and charitable initiatives. First responders receive two‑for‑one tickets starting at $50. Las Vegas’ reputation as an entertainment hub shapes the experience. National anthem performances, halftime shows and signature events such as the NBA Summer League Tip‑Off Party at Wynn Las Vegas are on the agenda. The Summer League Film Festival returns July 16‑18 at Strip View Pavilion, showcasing over 25 films with screenings, panel discussions and Q & A sessions featuring directors, producers and industry talent. The event also serves as a pipeline for industry careers. More than 100 interns work across various operational facets, while a classroom program led by former Brooklyn Nets assistant general manager Bobby Marks has helped more than 200 alumni secure positions as coaches, referees, front‑office executives, broadcasters and agents. Hall summed up the outlook: “We try to move the needle and improve each year.”