AJ Dybantsa tallies 23 points vs. Kings
AJ Dybantsa tallies 23 points vs. Kings
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LAS VEGAS – The first weekend of the 2026 NBA Summer League, and the most important from a sneak-peek standpoint, is officially over. And if there were any suspense about the No. 1 overall draft pick, consider it over — at least here in Vegas.
AJ Dybantsa once again certified his Draft status Sunday and yet there were others who either followed up solid outings with more of the same or finally dropped an impressive night.
As a new week beckons, it remains to be seen how many of the top draft picks or second-year players continue to play. Have their teams seen enough?
Until then, the schedule ahead will offer interesting matchups and a second or third chance for some players to make a first impression.
Here’s a recap of some players who delivered on an eight-game Day 4 of the tournament:
AJ Dybantsa, Washington Wizards
It was more of the same from the No. 1 overall pick, who showcased a variety of skills at both ends in the Wizards’ easy win over the Sacramento Kings and fellow first rounder Darius Acuff Jr.; Dybantsa blocked one of his shots. Dybantsa started strongly and ended his night early, playing just 24 minutes yet dropping 23 points, seven rebounds, three steals and a pair of blocks. Once again, Dybantsa was aggressive, especially at the onset, which is what the Wizards want from their foundational rookie. He still needs to connect more often on 3-point shots; he missed all five in the summer league opener and was 1-for-6 Sunday.
Will Riley, Washington Wizards
Will Riley racks up a team-high 32 points in Summer League victory over Kings.
Actually, the leading scorer in Kings-Wizards was Dybantsa’s teammate. Riley, a second-year guard, scored 25 of his 32 points in the second half. Plus, unlike Dybantsa, Riley showed sharpness from deep, shooting 6-for-8 at range.
Maleek Thomas, Cleveland Cavaliers
What Arkansas guard had the best Sunday splash? That would be Thomas who, unllike Acuff, lasted until the Second Round. He was the quintessential player-who-fell from the First Round, and the Cavaliers were thrilled, for their sake. Thomas showed a solid handle against the Pistons and how he’s equipped to run a team at the point. And not only did he finish with a game-high 30 points and seven assists in his second Summer League game, he added four steals.
Lester Quinones, Orlando Magic
Lester Quinones scores 30 points in Summer League win vs. Trail Blazers
The Summer League isn’t just for highly-touted first rounders. It’s also a showcase for players who are trying to gain traction and stick with a team; their only other option is to play overseas. Quinones defines that type of player. He went undrafted in 2022, had stints with the Warriors, Pelicans and Sixers, and now is trying to impress the Magic after repping Orlando’s G-League team this past season. Quinones scored 30 points on 9-for-14 shooting against Portland. That’s a start.
Keaton Wagler, Los Angeles Clippers
Keaton Wagler scores a team-high 23 points vs. Utah in 2026 NBA Summer League action.
The Clippers’ First Round pick started slowly in his Summer League debut but, like most players in these situations, developed a better sense of comfort in subsequent games. Wagler scored 23 points against the Utah Jazz and matched the same number of points in a matchup against fellow first-round guard Darryn Peterson, who was taken three spots higher. Wagler shot just 1-for-7 in his opener against Acuff, so this was a better first impression, especially considering the competition.
Khaman Maluach, Phoenix Suns
The Suns are hoping for a big sophomore season from the 2025 lottery pick, who struggled to get significant playing time as a rookie. He had a 19-point, 11-rebound double-double Friday against Portland and followed up with another Sunday against the Pelicans, with 15 points and as many rebounds. The 7-foot center took only 21 shots from deep all last season; in his two Summer League games he attempted 11, making five.










