The 2026 NBA Summer League opened in Las Vegas on July 9, bringing together a mix of rookie sensations and veteran hopefuls eager to catch the eye of NBA decision‑makers.
Among the newcomers are four former Purdue Boilermakers — Braden Smith, Trey Kaufman‑Renn, Fletcher Loyer and Oscar Cluff — who have each earned a spot on summer‑league rosters.
Draft moves and contract details
Braden Smith entered the draft after a standout college career and was selected by the Chicago Bulls, only to be flipped to the Indiana Pacers in a pre‑season trade that could give the point guard a fresh opportunity to showcase his playmaking.
Fletcher Loyer, another Boilermaker guard, signed an Exhibit‑10 contract with the Los Angeles Clippers, a deal that typically includes a two‑way arrangement and a chance to earn a guaranteed contract based on performance.
Center Oscar Cluff was signed by the Houston Rockets for the summer circuit, adding front‑court depth to a Rockets squad that is evaluating young big men ahead of the regular season.
Summer League debuts
Trey Kaufman‑Renn made his Summer League debut for the Minnesota Timberwolves, logging 2 points, 5 rebounds — including four on the offensive glass — 1 steal and a turnover, while also being charged with defensive lapses that left opponents with clean looks at the basket.
The early showing highlighted both the offensive rebounding instincts that earned him praise in college and the need to tighten his defensive positioning against more athletic competition.
The league’s schedule runs through July 19, giving each team a compact window to assess talent before the regular season begins.