The NBA Summer League in Las Vegas is set to showcase a new wave of talent, and two former Colorado Buffaloes are among the prospects drawing early attention. KJ Simpson and Cody Williams, both alumni of the University of Colorado, will step onto the court in early July as they vie for roster spots with NBA franchises.
A Summer of Opportunity
Simpson, who signed a two‑way contract with the Denver Nuggets midway through the 2025‑26 season, will wear the Nuggets' colors during the Las Vegas stint. His schedule includes matchups against the Houston Rockets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Portland Trail Blazers, offering a direct test against some of the league’s most dynamic guards.
Williams, the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Utah Jazz, arrives after a promising showing in the Salt Lake City Summer League, where he averaged 17.5 points and 6.5 rebounds. He is slated to face the Washington Wizards, the L.A. Clippers, the Chicago Bulls, and the San Antonio Spurs, a slate that could cement his role in the Jazz’s plans.
The Las Vegas Summer League runs from July 9 to July 19 and features all 30 NBA teams, each playing five games. The top four teams will advance to the semifinals on July 18, with the championship game scheduled for July 19. The remaining 26 teams will each play a fifth game between July 17 and 19, ensuring ample opportunities for players to demonstrate their abilities.
Beyond individual exposure, the presence of Colorado alumni underscores the university’s growing influence on professional basketball. Their participation not only highlights the quality of the Buffaloes’ program but also adds a narrative thread that connects past achievements with future aspirations for the next generation of Buffs.
Looking Ahead
As the summer unfolds, both Simpson and Williams will be measured not only by statistics but by their capacity to translate college performance into NBA readiness. Scouts, coaches, and fans alike will be watching closely, aware that a strong showing could accelerate contract negotiations and reshape the early career trajectories of these former Colorado standouts.