Lakers Meet Warriors, Rockets Face Grizzlies in Las Vegas Summer League Semifinals
lakers-warriors-rockets-grizzlies-set-for-summer-league-semifinals
The NBA has finalized the Las Vegas Summer League semifinal pairings, slotting the Rockets against the Grizzlies and the Warriors against the undefeated Lakers. Both games are set for Saturday at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. ET, respectively. The winners will advance to Sunday’s championship contest at 9:00 p.m. ET.
Los Angeles enters the semifinals as the only 4-0 club in Vegas. Memphis, Houston and Golden State each posted 3-1 records but edged out other contenders on point differential. The league also released the remainder of the weekend schedule, featuring five additional matchups on Saturday and two on Sunday.
ESPN Interested in NBA Streaming Hub
Commissioner Adam Silver said earlier this week that the NBA hopes to debut a direct-to-consumer hub for local broadcasts in the 2027-28 season. On Thursday, ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro told a CNBC/Boardroom event that the network wants to partner with the league on the project, noting ESPN’s desire to “be part of the solution” for teams that lost regional sports outlets when Main Street Sports Group folded.
Grant Hill Optimistic About 2027 FIBA World Cup
USA Basketball men’s managing director Grant Hill expressed confidence that Team USA can end its medal drought at the 2027 FIBA World Cup. The United States has not reached the podium since winning gold in 2014. Hill cited a pool of eager young talent and projected strengths in size, defense and shooting as reasons for optimism.
Early Takes on 2026 Draft Class
ESPN’s Zach Kram delivered initial observations from Summer League, reporting that the draft’s top four selections have met expectations so far. He also highlighted Bucks guard Brayden Burries and Warriors forward Yaxel Lendeborg as notable performers outside the top five.
Free-Agency Dominoes Tied to LeBron Decision
Fred Katz of The Athletic outlined several NBA situations that could clarify once LeBron James chooses his next team. Among the pending moves: the free agencies of James Harden, Draymond Green and DeMar DeRozan. Katz added that restricted free agent Peyton Watson might remain in limbo until the Clippers and Raptors finalize a potential Kawhi Leonard trade, which could incorporate a sign-and-trade for the Nuggets wing.
Source: Hoops Rumors
