The NBA Summer League just got a much-needed expansion.
All 30 teams will participate in the summer league festivities, per Marc J. Spears of The Undefeated. It will be the first time that all teams will compete in the league.
The NBA says that for the first time all 30 teams will compete in NBA Summer League 2018 on July 6-17 at the Thomas & Mack Center and Cox Pavilion on the campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpears) January 30, 2018
As a result of more teams, the schedule will be extended, per a press release from the NBA.
With every team participating, NBA Summer League 2018 will expand to 12 days and 82 games as part of the usual tournament-style schedule. Teams will compete in three preliminary games before being seeded in a tournament that culminates with the Championship Game on July 17. Each team will play at least five games and as many as eight.
The expansion is good for the NBA. Summer League is a period of time for new players to get some time. Kyle Kuzma of the Los Angeles Lakers famously made his name at Summer League last year, showing that he can play with anyone in the NBA.
It’s also a time for lesser-known or undrafted players to work for a contract with an NBA team. Alex Caruso’s play in Summer League earned him a two-way contract with the Lakers.
And now that the schedule has more days and games, it gives fans a better chance to see good, fun basketball. They will also be able to see glimpses of their favorite players who decide to get at least some run during the summer.
Of course, more teams and games means a bigger chance for injury, so the players and teams will have to be mindful of that. But all in all, the NBA and its fans will benefit.
Follow Us
Subscribe