The NBA Summer League’s opening night in Las Vegas has become a highly anticipated event each year, and this season is no different. Cooper Flagg, the first overall pick in this year’s draft, is set to make his debut as the Dallas Mavericks face off against the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday. The Lakers continue to be a major attraction, especially with Bronnie James, the son of NBA superstar LeBron James, joining the summer roster.
The Thomas and Mack Center at UNLV is buzzing with excitement, filled with NBA players and fans. Courtside tickets are in high demand, fetching prices above $3,000 on resale markets, while average ticket prices hover around $223, with general admission starting at $84. StubHub prices are similar, with the cheapest tickets at $86 and premium 100-level seats going up to $1,066.
Despite being an exhibition, the game draws massive enthusiasm. Flagg expressed his excitement, saying he can’t wait to get back on the court and play full 5-on-5 games. This event kicks off a carnival-like atmosphere for the Mavericks vs. Lakers game and the broader summer league, which includes 30 teams from smaller summer leagues in Utah and California.
The energy mirrors that of Victor Wembanyama’s debut with San Antonio in 2023 or Zion Williamson’s 2019 New Orleans debut, where fans crowded around for photos and videos. Flagg aims to demonstrate his growth and improvement through his performance.
Ticket prices remain elevated partly due to the rarity of access to star rookies like Flagg. Top draft picks often don’t play all games in summer leagues, with some, like VJ Edgecombe, already managing minor injuries and missing matches.
The NBA Summer League runs from Thursday until the Championship Game on July 20th. After a four-game regular season, the top four teams advance to the playoffs, culminating in semifinals and the final on July 19th. The remaining 26 teams compete in consolation games to ensure every team plays at least five games.
In this league, quarters are shortened to 10 minutes instead of the usual 12, and players don’t foul out until their 10th foul, with overtime lasting 2 minutes rather than the standard 5.
Editorial Opinion (Fan Take): The NBA Summer League is a crucial platform for rookies like Cooper Flagg to showcase their skills and make a name for themselves. For basketball fans, it’s an exciting glimpse into the future stars of the league and offers a unique, close-up experience of the game’s next generation.
