The NBA Summer League has become an exciting showcase for young talent, with the league's top draft picks and undrafted free agents competing for a chance to prove themselves.
The Summer League MVP award is highly coveted, as it recognizes the player who has made the biggest impact during the tournament. Here's a look at the last 10 players who have won this prestigious award:
2023: Cam Whitmore, Houston Rockets
Cam Whitmore, the 20th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, was named the 2023 Summer League MVP after leading the Houston Rockets to the championship game. The 6'7" forward averaged 20.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 3.0 steals per game, showcasing his versatility and potential as a two-way player.
2022: Keegan Murray, Sacramento Kings
Keegan Murray, the 4th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, had an impressive Summer League performance, earning him the MVP award. The forward averaged 23.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, helping the Sacramento Kings reach the semifinals.
2021: Cam Thomas, Brooklyn Nets (Co-MVP)
Cam Thomas, the 27th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, shared the Summer League MVP award with Davion Mitchell. Thomas, playing for the Brooklyn Nets, averaged 27.0 points per game, showcasing his scoring prowess.
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2021: Davion Mitchell, Sacramento Kings (Co-MVP)
Davion Mitchell, the 9th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, was named co-MVP alongside Cam Thomas. Mitchell, playing for the Sacramento Kings, averaged 10.8 points, 5.8 assists, and 1.4 rebounds per game, with his defensive intensity being a key factor in the Kings' Summer League championship.
2019: Brandon Clarke, Memphis Grizzlies
Brandon Clarke, the 21st overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, was named Summer League MVP while playing for the Memphis Grizzlies. The forward averaged 14.7 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game, demonstrating his impact on both ends of the floor.
2018: Josh Hart, Los Angeles Lakers
Josh Hart, the 30th overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, won the Summer League MVP award while playing for the Los Angeles Lakers. The guard averaged 24.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, showcasing his scoring ability and all-around game.
2017: Lonzo Ball, Los Angeles Lakers
Lonzo Ball, the 2nd overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, was named Summer League MVP while playing for the Los Angeles Lakers. The point guard averaged 16.3 points, 9.3 assists, 7.7 rebounds, and 2.3 steals per game, leading the Lakers to the Summer League championship.
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2016: Tyus Jones, Memphis Grizzlies
Tyus Jones, the 24th overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, won the Summer League MVP award while playing for the Minnesota Timberwolves. The point guard averaged 19.4 points, 6.0 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game, demonstrating his playmaking abilities.
2015: Kyle Anderson, San Antonio Spurs
Kyle Anderson, the 30th overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, was named Summer League MVP while playing for the San Antonio Spurs. The forward averaged 22.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, showcasing his versatility and court vision.
2014: Glen Rice Jr., Washington Wizards
Glen Rice Jr., the 35th overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, won the Summer League MVP award while playing for the Washington Wizards. The guard averaged 25.0 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, leading the Wizards to the Summer League championship.
These last 10 Summer League MVPs have demonstrated their talent and potential, with some going on to have successful NBA careers. The Summer League continues to be an important platform for young players to showcase their skills and make their mark in the league.
