Cam Thomas – Brooklyn Nets
The NBA Summer League tipped off in Las Vegas for the first time since 2019, and with one of the deepest drafts in recent years, plenty of young talent took the court.
After over a week of games, it was Nets draft pick Cam Thomas who stole the headlines. Despite offloading a ton of draft picks in the James Harden trade and picking late in the 1st round, Brooklyn looks to have one of the steals of the draft.
Thomas was unstoppable in Vegas from the start, leading all players with 27 points-per-game. His 36 points in a win over San Antonio were the most in a NBA Summer League game since 2018. His footwork is great, ball handling is fantastic, and he can play a huge role for Brooklyn off the bench.
Aaron Judge – New York Yankees
The Yankees have been on fire after punching their way back into a competitive AL East race. The Bomber bats are alive in the second half, and at the center of it is Aaron Judge.
Judge had a monster week as the Yankees played the White Sox in the first ever Field of Dreams game in Iowa before finishing the series in Chicago.
Judge hit two homers and recorded 5 RBI at the Field of Dreams before a sac fly, RBI double, go-ahead HR, and go-ahead RBI single in a 10-inning thriller the next game. In the final game of the series, Judge walked three times as Chicago wised up to his offensive threat.
Jose Alvarado – New Orleans Pelicans
Brooklyn’s own Jose Alvarado is working hard to earn his ticket to the NBA. After spending 4 years at Georgia Tech, the gritty guard is moving on to bigger challenges.
Alvarado signed a 2-way contract with the New Orleans Pelicans after some great showings in Summer League play. He led the NOLA Summer League roster in rebounds, blocks, and steals and was second in points and assists.
If he keeps up his infectious energy and tough play, Alvarado has a solid NBA career in his future.
On August 18th, Alvarado was signed by the Pelicans on a two-way contract. He’ll likely spend a fair share of time in the G-League, but it’s only a matter of time before Alvarado is hooping on the big stage.
