The official 2025 summer league schedule has arrived, and basketball fans around the globe are ready for the action. Spanning from July 10 to July 20, this year’s NBA Summer League is a packed showcase of rookie stars, returning talents, and players fighting for their place in the league. With all 30 NBA teams participating, fans can expect thrilling matchups, highlight-worthy moments, and intense competition across multiple venues. In this blog, we break down the key dates, top games, star matchups, and viewing options you won’t want to miss.
Pre-Vegas Warmups Set the Stage
Before the Las Vegas games kicked off, the summer league schedule featured warm-up events in California and Salt Lake City. These smaller tournaments helped teams evaluate rookie performances and test team chemistry.
Key Highlights from Warm-Up Events:
- California Classic (July 5, 6, 8) featured Golden State, Miami, the Lakers, and San Antonio.
- Salt Lake City Series (July 5–8) saw Utah, Memphis, Philadelphia, and Oklahoma City match up in competitive games.
These early events delivered breakout performances and set the tone for the more expansive Las Vegas phase.
Las Vegas Showdown: Main Summer League Schedule Details
The centerpiece of the summer league schedule runs from July 10 to July 20 across two venues: Cox Pavilion and Thomas & Mack Center. Over 76 games will be played, each NBA team guaranteed at least four games, with the top four teams advancing to the semifinals and finals.
Opening Day – July 10 Highlights:
- Pelicans vs. Timberwolves
- Cavaliers vs. Pacers
- Thunder vs. Nets
- Magic vs. Kings
- Clippers vs. Mavericks – A highly anticipated face-off featuring Cooper Flagg and Bronny James
- Nuggets vs. Bucks
- Spurs vs. 76ers
Broadcasts are available across ESPN, NBA TV, ESPNU, and major streaming platforms.
Biggest Storylines in the 2025 Summer League
1. Rookie Clashes Take Center Stage
The clash between top draft pick Cooper Flagg and rising star Bronny James has fans buzzing. Their head-to-head matchup on July 10 is among the most talked-about games of the entire summer slate.
2. Ace Bailey’s Momentum
After impressive performances in Salt Lake City, Utah’s Ace Bailey is a must-watch prospect in Las Vegas. His skill, control, and court vision make him a future franchise cornerstone.
3. VJ Edgecombe and Young Core Performances
With powerful play in the early rounds, VJ Edgecombe is proving why he was a top-three draft pick. His performance could influence his role heading into the regular season.
4. Spurs’ Dylan Harper Returns
San Antonio’s young talent Dylan Harper, sidelined during warm-ups, is expected to debut in Las Vegas. His presence brings a new dynamic to the Spurs’ roster.
Quick Facts – 2025 Summer League Format
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | July 10 – July 20 |
| Location | Las Vegas (2 venues) |
| Teams | 30 NBA Teams |
| Total Games | 76 |
| Championship Date | July 20 |
| Semifinals | July 19 |
| Broadcast | ESPN, NBA TV, Streaming |
Each team will compete in a minimum of 4 games. Based on win-loss records and tie-breakers, the top 4 advance to a single-elimination tournament.
How to Watch Every Game in the Summer League Schedule
Fans can watch the full summer league schedule via:
- ESPN Family of Networks – Including ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNU
- NBA TV – Featuring daily marquee matchups
- Streaming Services – ESPN+, NBA League Pass, and others
Multiple games air daily, giving fans non-stop action and the chance to scout future stars.
New Rule to Watch: The “Heave Rule”
A notable change in this year’s games is the introduction of the “heave rule”, allowing players to attempt last-second shots without impacting their field goal percentage. It encourages more buzzer-beater attempts and boosts excitement during quarter ends.
Players to Watch This Summer League
Here are the top emerging talents capturing attention during the summer league schedule:
- Cooper Flagg (Mavericks) – The No. 1 pick and dynamic forward
- Bronny James (Lakers) – Carrying the James legacy forward
- Ace Bailey (Jazz) – Already making a case for Rookie of the Year
- Dylan Harper (Spurs) – High expectations following his return
- Tyler Smith (Bucks) – Showing strong two-way potential
- VJ Edgecombe (Top 3 Pick) – Dominating early showings
Summary of Key Points
- The 2025 summer league schedule features 76 games across July 10–20 in Las Vegas.
- Key rookie matchups include Cooper Flagg vs. Bronny James.
- Every team will play at least four games, with the top four advancing to the semifinals.
- Major broadcasters and streamers are providing full coverage.
- New rule changes are increasing late-game drama and fan engagement.
Whether you’re a die-hard NBA fan or new to the summer league action, this year’s event is not to be missed. The talent pool is deep, the matchups are heated, and the stakes are real—even in the offseason.
Stay tuned, set your reminders, and catch every second of the 2025 summer league schedule—because the next big NBA superstar may just be one game away.
Get your gear ready, gather your crew, and stream the action live from July 10!