Las Vegas Sun

March 28, 2024

CONTENT PRESENTED BY NBA Summer League

Reasons to catch NBA 2K23 Summer League

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Powered by NBA Summer League

NBA Summer League is back in Las Vegas. The off-season competition gives attendees a chance to watch NBA superstars, fan favorites and up-and-comers. The 11-day experience features 75 games and all 30 NBA teams, and with more than 10,000 fans in attendance each day, it’s one of the can’t-miss sporting events of the year. Whether you’re an annual NBA Summer League attendee or a first-time fan, here are some of the reasons to head out to Summer League this week.

Events and entertainment

The growth of Summer League

Summer League has grown from six teams playing at Cox Pavilion in 2004 to the participation of all 30 NBA teams in sold-out arenas at Cox Pavilion and Thomas & Mack. The growth of Summer League has been meaningful to Las Vegas as well as basketball fans across the country and generates an annual economic impact of more than $50 million.

From the best parties of the year—including the exclusive NBA Tip-off party at Wynn Las Vegas—to instructional clinics featuring the best coaches in the game at the NBA Coaches Clinic, the events at Summer League extend past the court. Additionally, Las Vegas’ top performers appear as anthem singers and halftime performers, bringing some of the Strip’s star power to the Thomas & Mack Center.

Innovative activations

Walking around the arena is part of the experience at Summer League because of the next-level activations created in collaboration with NBA Top Shot and 2K. There’s even a broadcast studio on the concourse level and a sneaker lab on the weekends.

Fan fare

Summer League is the ultimate opportunity to obtain autographs from the soon-to-be superstars of the NBA. After each game, fans can collect autographs from every top draft pick and promising player on the concourse of ther Thomas & Mack Center. Plus, the merchandising at Summer League is next-level, with clothing, hats and more.

Star sightings

Best ticket value

The NBA Summer League price for general admission tickets are $40 (+fees) with free parking.

One of the best things about Summer League is never knowing who you might bump into. Big stars, including NBA head coaches, general managers, top players and celebrities routinely attend Summer League. It’s the who’s-who in the industry and the place for anyone affiliated with the NBA.

Championship Sunday

Eleven days of league play culminates in the championship game on Sunday, July 17. The game airs on national TV, and this year will be the first time the title game occurs on a weekend.

Community focus

NBA Summer League focuses on giving back to Las Vegas. In addition to donating thousands of charitable dollars, it brings youth groups to games and hosts junior clinics on game days.

Intern program

The Summer League’s intern program boasts more than 100 interns, and 160 former interns and SBC alumni who work in professional sports, including players, coaches, referees, front office personnel, broadcast talent and agents.

Sports Business Classroom

Known as the SBC, this immersive educational and training experience was designed by leading basketball professionals to develop sports business professionals. The one-of-a-kind program has placed more than 100 young professionals in sports business careers.