The 2024 Summer League is in full swing, and it’s that time of the year when young prospects and overlooked talents get their chance to shine under the bright lights of Las Vegas. The Summer League has produced some memorable moments and standout performances, especially from those who took home the MVP award. But what happens to these MVPs after their summer stardom fades? Let’s look back at the past 10 years and see where each Summer League MVP winner ended up. Are they still lighting it up in the NBA, or did their career take a different path? Here’s the scoop on every single Summer League MVP winner from the last 10 years.
- 2014 Summer League MVP – Glen Rice Jr.
- 2015 Summer League MVP – Kyle Anderson
- 2016 Summer League MVP – Tyus Jones
- 2017 Summer League MVP – Lonzo Ball
- 2018 Summer League MVP – Josh Hart
- 2019 Summer League MVP – Brandon Clarke
- 2020 Summer League MVP – N/A
- 2021 Summer League Co-MVPs – Davion Mitchell And Cameron Thomas
- 2022 Summer League MVP – Keegan Murray
- 2023 Summer League MVP – Cam Whitmore
2014 Summer League MVP – Glen Rice Jr.
Summer League Stats: 25.0 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 2.5 APG, 2.5 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Where he is now: Out of the league
Glen Rice Jr. lit up the 2014 Summer League, showcasing his scoring prowess and versatility on both ends of the floor. Averaging 25 points per game, he led the Washington Wizards to the championship and took home the MVP honors. Despite his impressive summer showing, Rice struggled to transition his success to the NBA regular season. He had brief stints with the Wizards, where he showed flashes of brilliance but couldn’t secure a consistent role.
After being waived by the Wizards, Rice bounced around the G League and then took his talents overseas. He played in various international leagues, including stops in the Philippines, Mexico, and Israel, trying to reignite his career. Despite his efforts, he never quite found the stability he needed to return to the NBA. As of now, Glen Rice Jr. remains out of the league, a reminder of how even the brightest summer stars can struggle to find their place in the NBA.
2015 Summer League MVP – Kyle Anderson
Summer League Stats: 21.0 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 1.9 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Where he is now: Golden State Warriors
Kyle Anderson, known for his versatile play and high basketball IQ, shone brightly in the 2015 Summer League, earning MVP honors with the San Antonio Spurs. His all-around game was on full display as he averaged 21 points and 6 rebounds per game, showcasing his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game. Anderson’s performance in the Summer League was a glimpse of his potential, and he carried that momentum into his NBA career.
After his standout summer, Anderson became a reliable rotation player for the Spurs, known for his steady play and defensive acumen. His unique “slow-mo” style set him apart, and he carved out a niche as a valuable role player. In 2018, he signed a four-year deal with the Memphis Grizzlies, where he continued to be a significant contributor. Anderson’s ability to defend multiple positions and his playmaking skills made him an asset for the Grizzlies.
In the 2023-24 NBA season, Anderson played for the Minnesota Timberwolves, averaging 6.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game across 79 games. His consistent play helped the Timberwolves reach the playoffs, where they made a great run. Anderson’s performance last season proved he still has plenty to offer at the NBA level.
This offseason, Anderson signed a three-year, $27 million deal with the Golden State Warriors, aiming to bring his veteran presence and versatility to a team with championship aspirations. His journey from Summer League MVP to a respected NBA player is a testament to his hard work and adaptability, proving that his summer success was no fluke.
2016 Summer League MVP – Tyus Jones
Summer League Stats: 19.4 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 4.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.0 BPG
Where he is now: Free agent
Tyus Jones earned the 2016 Summer League MVP while playing for the Minnesota Timberwolves, averaging 19.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. His performance demonstrated his potential as a reliable point guard, and he has since built a solid NBA career.
Following his Summer League success, Jones played several seasons with the Timberwolves before signing a three-year, $26.4 million contract with the Memphis Grizzlies in 2019. He became known for his efficient playmaking and low turnover rate. In the 2023-24 season, Jones was traded to the Washington Wizards as part of a three-team deal. With the Wizards, he averaged 12.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game.
Currently, Jones is a free agent looking for his next opportunity in the NBA. He remains a valuable player for teams needing a steady and experienced point guard.
2017 Summer League MVP – Lonzo Ball
Summer League Stats: 16.3 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 9.3 APG, 2.5 SPG, 1.0 BPG
Where he is now: Chicago Bulls
Lonzo Ball electrified the 2017 Summer League while playing for the Los Angeles Lakers, showcasing his elite playmaking skills and earning MVP honors. He averaged 16.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, 9.3 assists, and 2.5 steals per game, demonstrating his potential as a future star. His performance generated significant buzz and heightened expectations as he entered his rookie NBA season.
Ball began his NBA career with the Lakers, where he had a solid rookie season but struggled with injuries. In 2019, he was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans as part of the blockbuster deal that sent Anthony Davis to the Lakers. With the Pelicans, Ball continued to develop his game, improving his shooting and defensive skills.
In 2021, Lonzo signed a four-year, $85 million contract with the Chicago Bulls, where he played a key role in the team’s resurgence. However, his time with the Bulls has also been marred by injuries, limiting his ability to stay on the court consistently. Despite these challenges, Ball remains dedicated to be an integral part of the Bulls’ plans moving forward, providing valuable playmaking, defense, and leadership.
2018 Summer League MVP – Josh Hart
Summer League Stats: 24.2 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 2.3 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Where he is now: New York Knicks
Josh Hart lit up the 2018 Summer League with the Los Angeles Lakers, earning MVP honors by averaging 24.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. His standout performance demonstrated his scoring ability and defensive prowess, leading the Lakers to the Summer League championship game.
Following his Summer League success, Hart continued to develop as a solid role player in the NBA. He was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans in 2019 as part of the Anthony Davis trade. Hart became known for his hustle, rebounding, and defensive skills, making him a valuable asset off the bench.
In 2022, Hart was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers, where he continued to make an impact. During the 2022-23 season, Hart was traded to the New York Knicks. He’s been a key piece with the Knicks, averaging 10.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. His energy and tenacity have made him a fan favorite and an important piece of the Knicks’ rotation.
In 2023, Hart signed a four-year, $81 million contract extension with the Knicks, ensuring his place on the team for the foreseeable future. His extension comes with $58.5 million guaranteed, and he will earn $18.1 million in the 2024-25 season. The 2023-24 season saw the Knicks reach the Eastern Conference semifinals, where Hart’s performance, particularly his defense and clutch plays, were instrumental.
2019 Summer League MVP – Brandon Clarke
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqaUiK830Tk
Summer League Stats: 14.6 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.6 SPG, 1.6 BPG
Where he is now: Memphis Grizzlies
Brandon Clarke dominated the 2019 Summer League with the Memphis Grizzlies, earning MVP honors by averaging 14.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game. His performance showcased his versatility and defensive prowess, helping the Grizzlies secure the Summer League championship.
Clarke has been a key player for the Grizzlies since his impressive Summer League stint. However, his 2023-24 NBA season was marred by a significant injury. Clarke suffered an Achilles tear in March 2023, which caused him to miss the remainder of the 2022-23 season and the entire 2023-24 season while recovering.
Before his injury, Clarke was an essential part of the Grizzlies’ rotation, known for his energy, shot-blocking, and efficient scoring. Despite the setback, he remains an integral part of the Grizzlies’ plans moving forward. Clarke’s journey from Summer League MVP to a reliable NBA contributor highlights his consistent development and importance to the team’s success.
2020 Summer League MVP – N/A
The 2020 Summer League could not be displayed due to the Covid restrictions and the suspension of the league. The season re-started in December, as the NBA Draft was on November, so no Summer League games were played that season.
2021 Summer League Co-MVPs – Davion Mitchell And Cameron Thomas
Summer League Stats
Davion Mitchell: 10.8 PPG, 1.4 RPG, 5.8 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Cameron Thomas: 27.0 PPG, 1.8 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Where they are now: Cameron Thomas – Brooklyn Nets, Davion Mitchell – Toronto Raptors
Davion Mitchell and Cameron Thomas shared the spotlight as co-MVPs of the 2021 Summer League, each showcasing their unique talents. Mitchell, known for his defensive tenacity, averaged 10.8 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game, helping lead the Sacramento Kings to the Summer League championship. On the other hand, Thomas impressed with his scoring prowess, putting up an impressive 27.0 points per game for the Brooklyn Nets.
Since their Summer League success, both players have continued to make strides in the NBA. Cameron Thomas has remained with the Brooklyn Nets, where he has developed into a reliable scorer off the bench. During the 2023-24 season, Thomas had a breakout year, averaging 22.5 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game. His ability to create his own shot and score efficiently has made him a key piece for the Nets, especially during their rebuild.
Davion Mitchell, originally with the Sacramento Kings, was traded to the Toronto Raptors in June as part of a deal that included Sasha Vezenkov and draft picks. In the 2023-24 season, Mitchell averaged 5.3 points, 1.9 assists, and 1.3 rebounds per game while primarily coming off the bench. His defensive skills and work ethic continue to be his standout attributes as he integrates into the Raptors’ system.
Both Mitchell and Thomas have proven that their Summer League success was no fluke, as they continue to make significant contributions to their respective teams in the NBA. Their journeys highlight their growth and adaptability, showing that they have what it takes to thrive at the professional level.
2022 Summer League MVP – Keegan Murray
Summer League Stats: 23.3 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Where he is now: Sacramento Kings
Keegan Murray, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, made a strong impression in the 2022 Summer League by earning MVP honors. He showcased his scoring ability, averaging 23.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. His performance set high expectations as he transitioned to the NBA.
In the 2023-24 season, Murray continued to be a key player for the Sacramento Kings. He averaged 15.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game while shooting 45% from the field and 35% from three-point range over 77 games. His versatility and consistent performance have solidified his role as a crucial part of the Kings’ rotation.
Murray recently made headlines by scoring a career-high 47 points, including 12 three-pointers, in a game against the Utah Jazz. This performance not only highlighted his scoring prowess but also set multiple franchise records, such as the most points in a quarter and the most three-pointers made in a single quarter.
Additionally, Murray has been named to the 2024 USA Men’s Select Team, where he will train with the USA Men’s National Team in preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. This opportunity will provide him with valuable experience and exposure to high-level competition.
2023 Summer League MVP – Cam Whitmore
Summer League Stats: 20.4 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 3.0 SPG, 1.2 APG, 0.4 BPG
Where he is now: Houston Rockets
Cam Whitmore made a splash in the 2023 Summer League, earning MVP honors with his impressive performance. Averaging 20.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.0 steals per game, he quickly showcased his potential as a valuable asset for the Houston Rockets. Selected 20th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft, Whitmore’s fall from a projected top-10 pick to the 20th spot raised eyebrows, but his Summer League success suggested that concerns about him were unfounded.
In the 2023-24 NBA season, Whitmore continued to develop his game, averaging 12.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 0.7 assists per game. One of his standout performances came against the Toronto Raptors, where he scored a career-high 25 points, further solidifying his role in the Rockets’ rotation. Despite a strong rookie season, he felt overlooked for events like the Rising Stars Challenge, expressing that he felt underrated.
As the Rockets prepare for the upcoming season, Whitmore is expected to play a crucial role. The team, under head coach Ime Udoka, has surpassed their previous season’s win total and is looking forward to building on their young core, which includes Whitmore alongside other promising guards like Amen Thompson and Jalen Green.
