​The California Classic and Salt Lake City Summer League are in the rearview mirror, but that was only a warmup for the real Summer League spectacle in Las Vegas, where all 30 teams will take part. The full Summer League tips off today with a 2:30 p.m. clash between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the New Orleans Pelicans, the first of seven games on Day 1. The complete schedule unfolds as the event gets underway.
A dozen former Illini will suit up in Las Vegas, led by Los Angeles Clippers rookie Keaton Wagler—this year’s No. 5 overall pick—who headlines the contingent. For most of these players, Las Vegas presents a chance to prove themselves with something to gain and little to lose. It’s a setting defined by hard work, no guarantees, and relentless hustle.
Kylan Boswell, Charlotte Hornets
Boswell secured a two-way contract with Charlotte after going undrafted, a development that feels promising given the Hornets’ recent decision to trade away starting point guard LaMelo Ball. Boswell will still face competition from Coby White, Tre Mann, and first-round pick Christian Anderson. However, earning a two-way deal signals genuine organizational interest. Of the group, only Anderson is participating in Summer League this year, though former Seattle, Arizona, and Washington guard Terrell Brown Jr. remains on the roster after spending last season with Charlotte’s G League affiliate. Brown represents Boswell’s most direct competition for time.
Dain Dainja, Brooklyn Nets
Dainja wasn’t listed on Brooklyn’s roster for the Nets’ California Classic opener, but he delivered solid minutes off the bench in their final two West Coast games. The 6-foot-9 forward averaged seven points and seven rebounds in just 12.6 minutes per game—efficient, if modest, output consistent with his rookie season’s trajectory. After finishing his collegiate career at Memphis, Dainja spent the 2025-26 season with Miami’s G League affiliate and posted 13.1 points and 5.9 rebounds per game for the Sioux Falls Skyforce.
Luke Goode, Los Angeles Lakers
Goode’s first professional season included 42 appearances for the South Bay Lakers in the G League during 2025-26, and he remained with the Lakers for their California Classic run. The former Illini (with stints at Indiana as well) connected on 4 of 7 three-pointers across two Summer League games, a showing that highlighted his shooting ability. His best performance came Monday in an 88-84 victory over San Antonio, when he knocked down three triples and tallied nine points along with two rebounds. However, with Los Angeles carrying a crowded wings roster, minutes could be limited, especially with first-round pick Cameron Carr also vying for burn.
Ben Humrichous, Brooklyn Nets
Humrichous found himself in a timeshare with former UCLA forward Tyler Bilodeau during Brooklyn’s three California Classic games, particularly when first-round pick Joshua Jefferson was unavailable. He came off the bench in game one, started strongly in game two, and then drew a DNP in the finale. The former Illini’s performance during Brooklyn’s 89-69 win over Milwaukee drew notable attention, not only for on-court effort but for its potential to improve his visibility in the broader summer circuit and lead to more opportunities down the line.