Summer League Spotlight
The NBA Summer League in Las Vegas has become a proving ground for recent college standouts, and this year a handful of former Illinois players are turning heads with their early professional performances.
Jakucionis' Early Struggles and Shooting Test
Kasparas Jakucionis logged 11 points, three rebounds and six assists against the Miami Heat, but his night was marked by a 0-for-7 effort from inside the arc that highlighted the adjustment period to NBA speed.
Boswell's Efficient Role
Kylan Boswell, limited to 15 minutes, contributed eight points, seven assists and four offensive rebounds, showcasing a mistake-free defensive approach and a secondary playmaking role that coaches have praised.
Humrichous' Three-Point Surge
Ben Humrichous proved his shooting touch, converting 3-of-5 attempts from long range for nine points, a promising sign for a player looking to translate his college range to the pro game.
Riley's 32-Point Explosion
Will Riley exploded for 32 points, adding six rebounds and three assists for the Washington Wizards, displaying a microwave-shooting ability and a downhill scoring package that left observers impressed.
Wagler's Draft-Day Spotlight
Keaton Wagler, the No. 5 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, erupted for 18 points in the third quarter, matching the Utah Jazz’s team total, though he finished with seven fouls and a 2-for-9 record inside the paint, underscoring both his potential and the learning curve ahead.
Together, these performances illustrate how the Illinois pipeline is already delivering moments of impact, even as the players navigate the rigors of professional basketball.