The NBA Summer League has become a proving ground for recent college standouts, and this year six former Texas Longhorns have entered the fray, each wearing a different NBA jersey as they chase a spot on an opening night roster.
A fresh batch of talent
The players arrived in Las Vegas with varying expectations, but all share a common goal: to translate their collegiate success into minutes on an NBA court. Their journeys reflect both the promise and the uncertainty that define the summer circuit.
Dailyn Swain, drafted by the Chicago Bulls after a college season that saw him average 17.3 points and 7.5 rebounds, arrives as one of the most highly regarded prospects. The Bulls view him as a potential backcourt contributor, and his performance in the Summer League could determine whether he earns a guaranteed contract.
Tramon Mark, a Texas native who started 36 games in his final season, has signed with the Phoenix Suns. The Suns have high hopes for the forward, who averaged 14 points and 3.5 rebounds per game, and they see the Summer League as the first step toward a possible two‑way or standard contract.
Tre Johnson, who spent his rookie year with the Washington Wizards, returns to the Summer League looking to build on a modest debut that included a 12.2‑point average and a 35.8 percent three‑point clip. His ability to stretch the floor could earn him a larger role in Washington’s rotation.
The remaining three alumni are also making noise: Max Abmas will showcase his playmaking for the Utah Jazz, Arthur Kaluma will attempt to impress the Los Angeles Lakers, and Jayson Kent will aim to contribute to the Portland Trail Blazers. Each hopes that a strong showing will translate into a permanent NBA spot.
Beyond individual aspirations, the presence of these former Longhorns underscores the University of Texas’s continued impact on professional basketball. Their performances will be closely watched by coaches, front offices, and analysts eager to see which players can turn summer league minutes into lasting NBA careers.