The 2026 NBA Summer League Day 3: Young Players Continue to Make Strong First Impressions
Mike Goodpaster Published 13/07/2026
The 2026 NBA Summer League continued to provide teams with valuable opportunities to evaluate young talent, as Day 3 in Las Vegas featured eight games filled with competitive matchups and breakout performances. While several top draft picks were rested, many rookies, second-year players, and undrafted prospects made the most of their extra playing time.
With training camp still months away, Summer League serves as an important step for players hoping to earn roster spots or larger responsibilities during the regular season. The latest NBA News from Las Vegas showed that several emerging talents are beginning to separate themselves through consistent play on both ends of the floor.
Key Takeaways
Day 3 of the 2026 NBA Summer League highlighted impressive performances from young players, including rookies and second-year prospects, who are making strong cases for regular season roles.
- Rookie guard Labaron Philon and second-year forward Johni Broome were instrumental in the Philadelphia 76ers' overtime victory, showcasing strong offensive and interior play.
- Atlanta Hawks' first-round pick Zuby Ejiofor led the team's defensive effort in their win against the Brooklyn Nets, demonstrating his rim protection and defensive versatility.
- Arthur Kaluma of the Los Angeles Lakers and Trevor Keels of the Miami Heat delivered top scoring performances, with Kaluma scoring 34 points and Keels adding 32, underscoring the impact of emerging talents and former draft picks.
Labaron Philon and Johni Broome power the 76ers
The Philadelphia 76ers outlasted the Indiana Pacers 100-93 in overtime behind another impressive outing from rookie guard Labaron Philon. The No. 22 overall pick finished with a game-high 24 points, six assists, three rebounds, and one steal, taking control during overtime with timely baskets and confident shot creation. His ability to attack defenders and create offense has quickly become one of Philadelphia's biggest strengths during Summer League.
Second-year forward Johni Broome provided plenty of support inside, recording 23 points and 11 rebounds despite struggling from three-point range. His rebounding, physical defense, and interior scoring helped the 76ers secure the victory. Indiana also had a bright spot in rookie Braden Smith, who contributed 16 points, five assists, and two steals while showing composure as the Pacers' floor general.
Zuby Ejiofor headlines Atlanta's defensive effort
The Atlanta Hawks relied on team defense to defeat the Brooklyn Nets 83-76, with first-round pick Zuby Ejiofor playing a major role. The former St. John's standout finished with 13 points, six rebounds, three blocks, and two steals while continuing to display the defensive instincts that earned him multiple college honors. His ability to protect the rim and defend in space has made him one of the early rising stars in the NBA Summer League competition.
Atlanta also received valuable minutes from rookie Kingston Flemings, who contributed nine points, seven defensive rebounds, and five assists despite an inconsistent shooting night. For Brooklyn, Chaney Johnson stood out with 20 points, 10 rebounds, and five steals, taking advantage of expanded playing time with several teammates unavailable.
Top scoring performances
The Los Angeles Lakers closed the night with one of the most convincing wins of the day, defeating the Dallas Mavericks 91-70 behind Arthur Kaluma's outstanding performance. The second-year forward scored 34 points on 11-of-16 shooting while knocking down six three-pointers and grabbing five rebounds. After scoring 18 points in his previous game, Kaluma continued his strong start and showed why he is becoming one of the biggest rising stars in the NBA during Summer League.
Miami guard Trevor Keels also delivered one of the day's best individual performances despite the Heat's 93-88 loss to Orlando. Keels poured in 32 points while making six three-pointers and adding four rebounds and two assists. His efficient scoring reminded teams that former draft picks can still develop into valuable contributors with the right opportunity.
Several other young players also made positive impressions throughout the day. Charlotte's undrafted duo of Michael Ajayi and Kylan Boswell provided efficient production, while Toronto's Nimari Burnett, New Orleans forward Jalon Moore, San Antonio guard Ja'Kobi Gillespie, Lakers rookie Peter Suder, Dallas big man Morez Johnson Jr., and Miami's Tre White each delivered performances that strengthened their cases for continued opportunities.
As Summer League continues, consistency will become just as important as standout performances. For teams evaluating their future and fans following the latest NBA News, the tournament remains one of the best opportunities to watch young talent develop before the regular season begins.