The NBA Summer League is a proving ground for young talent, a place where dreams are either validated or deferred. For former Kentucky Wildcats forward Lance Ware, this year’s Summer League represents a golden opportunity to showcase his skills, prove his worth, and take the next step toward securing a spot in the NBA. After a collegiate career marked by growth, resilience, and unwavering effort, Ware now faces his biggest challenge yet—demonstrating that he belongs among the best basketball players in the world.
A Collegiate Career Built on Hard Work
Lance Ware arrived at the University of Kentucky in 2020 as a highly touted four-star recruit from Camden, New Jersey. Standing at 6’9” with a strong frame and impressive athleticism, Ware was seen as a versatile big man capable of impacting the game on both ends of the floor. However, during his time in Lexington, he found himself in a crowded frontcourt, sharing minutes with other talented players like Oscar Tshiebwe, Isaiah Jackson, and Jacob Toppin.
Despite limited offensive opportunities, Ware carved out a role as a high-energy defender, rebounder, and glue guy. His willingness to do the dirty work—setting screens, battling for loose balls, and defending multiple positions—made him a valuable piece for Coach John Calipari. While his stats (3.4 points and 3.3 rebounds per game over three seasons) may not jump off the page, those who watched Kentucky basketball closely understood his importance.
Ware’s impact went beyond the box score. He was a leader in the locker room, a player who embraced his role without complaint, and a relentless worker who set the tone in practice. These intangibles, combined with his physical tools, give him a legitimate shot at catching the eye of NBA scouts.
The Summer League: A Make-or-Break Opportunity
For undrafted players and fringe NBA prospects, the Summer League is often the last chance to impress before teams finalize their rosters for the upcoming season. Ware, who went undrafted in the 2023 NBA Draft, will now look to prove that he can contribute at the next level. His game is tailor-made for the modern NBA in many ways—he’s mobile, defends well in space, and has shown flashes of an improving offensive skill set.
One of Ware’s biggest strengths is his defensive versatility. In today’s NBA, big men must be able to switch onto guards, protect the rim, and hold their own in pick-and-roll coverage. Ware has shown the ability to do all of these things at the college level, and if he can demonstrate the same in Las Vegas, he could earn an invitation to an NBA training camp.
Offensively, Ware is still a work in progress. He’s not a prolific scorer, but he has shown improvement in his mid-range jumper and finishing around the rim. His passing ability is also underrated—a skill that could help him stand out among other big men in Summer League play. If he can prove that he can knock down open shots and make smart decisions with the ball, his stock will rise significantly.
