The NBA Summer League, a annual rite of passage for rookies and aspiring players, kicked off on July 9 and will run through July 19, offering teams a compressed schedule of games that can extend based on performance.
Cyclone Connections
Four former Cyclones — Keshon Gilbert, Joshua Jefferson, Curtis Jones and Tamin Lipsey — are among the hopefuls vying to prove they belong on an NBA court.
Gilbert, who signed a two‑way contract with the Atlanta Hawks, appeared in four NBA games last season, showcasing his defensive versatility and earning a spot on the summer roster.
Joshua Jefferson, the Cyclones' first consensus All‑American since 2016, was selected by the Brooklyn Nets in the 2026 draft and is now preparing for his first summer league games.
Curtis Jones, after a season with the Denver Nuggets, has inked a deal with the Boston Celtics, bringing his rebounding instincts to a storied franchise.
Tamin Lipsey, an undrafted guard, earned an Exhibit 10 contract with the Indiana Pacers, a pathway that has become a staple for undrafted players seeking a foothold in the league.
Looking Ahead
The performances of these former Cyclones not only highlight individual ambition but also underscore the growing pipeline from Iowa State to the NBA, a trend that could reshape the program's recruiting narrative.
As the summer league wraps up, the players' outings will be closely watched by analysts and fans alike, with contract guarantees and future roster spots hanging in the balance.