Five major takeaways from NBA Summer League

The 2026 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas is in the books, with several Australians and players with former NBL connections producing standout performances.

Let’s take a look at five of the major takeaways.

Olbrich makes every minute count

Former Illawarra Hawks big man Lachlan Olbrich became the latest NBL player to win a Summer League championship, playing a major role in the Golden State Warriors’ run to the title.

The 22-year-old enjoyed an impressive warm-up to Las Vegas at the California Classic, where he was outstanding in his minutes off the bench.

Once the official tournament got underway, Olbrich showed no signs of slowing down, scoring in double figures in four consecutive games, despite playing fewer than 20 minutes each time.

Cameron looks right at home

Adelaide 36ers young gun Flynn Cameron remained patient while waiting for his opportunity with the Portland Trail Blazers’ Summer League team and, when his moment arrived, he didn’t look back.

The 26-year-old wing scored in double-figures in three of the four games he played, highlighted by a 16-point, five-rebound and four-assist performance against Denver, where he was named player of the game.

Cameron continued to speak about his unwavering confidence in his ability to compete at that level and looked comfortable taking it up to some of the best young players in the world.

Hickey proves he can run the show

Illawarra Hawks guard Will Hickey was handed the keys to the team during the Los Angeles Lakers’ time at the California Classic.

In typical Hickey fashion, the stat-stuffing 27-year-old was up to his usual tricks, pulling down rebounds, dishing out assists and collecting steals as he controlled proceedings from the point.

His nine-point, seven-rebound and three-assist performance against the Oklahoma City Thunder in just 16 minutes further highlighted his ability to influence the game across the board without needing to score at a high rate.

Zikarsky looks ready for more

It was the second Summer League appearance for former Brisbane Next Star Rocco Zikarsky, and he looked to have taken his game to another level.

After a strong rookie season with the Minnesota Timberwolves’ G League affiliate, Zikarsky starred in Las Vegas during this year’s tournament.

Following an 18-point, six-rebound performance against the Trail Blazers, he saved his best for last, producing 16 points, seven rebounds, five assists and two blocks against the LA Clippers to round out his week.

The 221-centimetre big man impressed with his range, knocking down some big outside shots while also keeping the defence honest around the rim.

Lee’s scoring touch shines through

NBL fans will remember the impact Hyunjung Lee made for the Hawks two seasons ago, and Las Vegas received a firsthand look at his brilliance.

Lee suited up for the San Antonio Spurs and continued to improve as the tournament progressed. He delivered his best performance against the Utah Jazz, recording 22 points, five rebounds and four assists in just 22 minutes.

Currently playing in Japan, Lee has been producing some huge numbers at club level and while representing South Korea during the FIBA windows.