When does the NBA’s Summer League slate begin?

When does the 2023 NBA Summer League slate begin?

The NBA is knee-deep in the 2023 NBA offseason. It started off with a bang thanks to a couple of blockbuster trades in which Bradley Beal was traded to the Phoenix Suns and Chris Paul was sent to the Golden State Warriors. And this could just be there beginning of what will likely end up being a chaotic start to NBA Free Agency.

But the transaction is just one part of the offseason in the NBA. Another big part of the offseason for the Association includes the Summer League, often where many teams get their first look at recently drafted rookies and a second or third look at some of their other young players.

Heading into this year’s Summer League slate, there is going to be plenty of intrigue. In what may end up being one of the most top-heavy drafts in recent history, over the course of the next couple of weeks, we’re going to get our first looks at Victor Wembanyama, Brandon Miller, Scoot Henderson, and other talented young players. At least that’s the hope.

When does the NBA’s Summer League begin?

This summer, there are going to be three different leagues that will offer NBA teams the opportunity to send their teams to play tournament-style games. First, there’s the California Classic Summer League which takes place between July 3-5 in Sacramento.

Then, there’s the Salt Lake City Summer League which takes place July 3-6, and, finally, the Las Vegas Summer League which takes place July 7-17.

The California Classic will feature the Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers, San Antonio Spurs, Charlotte Hornets, Golden State Warriors, and Sacramento Kings. The Salt Lake City Summer League will feature the Memphis Grizzlies, Philadelphia 76ers, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Utah Jazz. And, finally, the Las Vegas Summer League will include every team in the league.

The LVSL is where most of the intrigue will come from as it’s the place where nearly every top draft pick will make their debut and where the table will be set for young players to separate themselves from the rest of the competition.

The LVSL is where jobs are one and contracts are guaranteed. Even though it may not be considered “meaningful basketball,” try saying that to the young players that will be competing for jobs and/or a future in the Association.

The complete schedule for each of those summer leagues can be found here.