Lamont Butler’s journey has never been about shortcuts. From his high school days in Riverside, California, to his standout moments at San Diego State University, Butler has built a reputation as one of college basketball’s fiercest competitors and most reliable defenders. Now, with the news that Butler has been officially invited to the 2025 NBA G League Elite Camp, the next chapter in his basketball career begins—one that could ultimately land him a coveted spot on an NBA roster.
The G League Elite Camp is a significant event in the NBA pre-draft process. Scheduled to take place in Chicago, it features a select group of top prospects who are on the fringe of the NBA Draft radar. These players will have the opportunity to perform in front of executives, coaches, and scouts from all 30 NBA teams. For Butler, it’s the latest in a series of steps toward fulfilling a lifelong dream.
The camp is particularly valuable because it serves as a proving ground. For players like Butler—athletes with immense talent but perhaps not as much national spotlight as some of their peers—it’s a place to change narratives and solidify stock. The invite list is highly competitive, composed of players who have made names for themselves at the college level but are looking to climb into draft consideration or, at the very least, secure Summer League and training camp invites. The event includes athletic testing, shooting drills, and live 5-on-5 competition over the course of two days. In past years, standout performers at the G League Elite Camp have even been promoted to the NBA Draft Combine, which takes place immediately afterward.
For Butler, the invitation is more than a nod to his on-court performance—it’s a recognition of the work he’s put in throughout his collegiate career. A defensive stalwart, Butler was named the Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year and played a pivotal role in San Diego State’s historic run to the national championship game in 2023. His buzzer-beater in the Final Four against Florida Atlantic became one of the most iconic shots in NCAA Tournament history, instantly catapulting him into the national spotlight.
Butler’s calling card has always been his defense. He is a relentless on-ball pest who takes pride in shutting down opposing guards. But over the course of his college career, he worked tirelessly to expand his offensive game. He improved his shooting mechanics, added more control as a playmaker, and showed increased confidence with his mid-range and perimeter shooting. His leadership, poise under pressure, and maturity—both on and off the court—have consistently drawn praise from teammates and coaches alike.
San Diego State head coach Brian Dutcher has often called Butler the heart and soul of the Aztecs’ program. “Lamont is everything you want in a player,” Dutcher once said. “He’s tough, he’s disciplined, he leads by example, and he never backs down from a challenge. He’s grown every year he’s been with us, and he deserves this opportunity to show NBA teams what he can do.”
What sets Butler apart from many other draft hopefuls isn’t just his defensive instincts or clutch gene—it’s his resilience. He faced personal tragedy during his time at San Diego State, losing his younger sister in a devastating incident in 2022. Rather than retreat, Butler leaned on his team, his coaches, and his faith to push forward. That inner strength became a defining feature of his game—he plays with a rare sense of purpose and intensity that coaches at the next level covet.
Now, with the G League Elite Camp in front of him, Butler has a golden opportunity to impress decision-makers in person. NBA teams are always on the lookout for players who bring value beyond the box score, and Butler’s profile fits that mold. His lateral quickness, defensive tenacity, and ability to guard multiple positions make him an attractive option for teams in need of backcourt depth and a perimeter stopper.
Butler’s offensive game, once seen as a weakness, has evolved considerably. He averaged career highs in points and assists during his final season with the Aztecs while demonstrating improved shot selection and decision-making. At the G League Elite Camp, consistent shooting and the ability to create offense in live scrimmages could be the difference-maker for him. Scouts will also be watching his court vision and how he runs the offense—traits that aren’t always captured on tape but become evident in real-time evaluations.
It’s worth noting that the G League route has become an increasingly viable path to the NBA. Players like Austin Reaves, Jose Alvarado, and Alex Caruso—all undrafted—used their time in the G League to polish their skills and eventually earn guaranteed contracts. The Elite Camp serves as a bridge for players on the cusp—those with the right tools but needing the right opportunity.
Butler’s work ethic and attitude suggest that he’s more than capable of seizing that opportunity. Former teammates frequently cite his competitiveness and preparation as elite. “Lamont showed up every day ready to work,” said a former San Diego State teammate. “Whether it was practice, a film session, or a game, he approached everything like a pro.”
Off the court, Butler also brings intangibles that teams value highly. He is coachable, team-oriented, and humble—a consummate teammate who understands his role and executes it with precision. In a professional environment, where egos can sometimes overshadow the greater good, Butler’s no-nonsense, blue-collar approach is refreshing.
Another area in which Butler has made strides is in leadership. He emerged as a vocal presence in the locker room during his senior season, mentoring younger players and helping hold the team accountable through ups and downs. That maturity will be crucial as he navigates the transition to the professional level, where expectations are higher and roles are more specialized.
Butler’s representation has emphasized that he is open to all avenues—whether it be a late second-round selection, a two-way contract, or earning a spot through Summer League. What matters most to Butler is the chance to compete and prove himself.
As the camp approaches, the stakes are high, but the moment doesn’t seem too big for Butler. He’s already thrived under pressure before—he’s hit game-winners, guarded All-Americans, and led a program through its most successful era. Now, he enters a new arena, one filled with scouts, analysts, and executives who hold the keys to his professional future. But if there’s one thing Butler has shown throughout his career, it’s that he’s never been afraid of the spotlight. He embraces it.
In a basketball landscape where flashy offensive highlights often dominate headlines, players like Lamont Butler remind everyone of the power of grit, defense, and composure. He doesn’t always fill up the highlight reel, but he makes winning plays, defends at a high level, and raises the standard for those around him.
As the G League Elite Camp draws near, all eyes will be on how Butler performs. Whether it’s locking down opposing guards, knocking down jumpers, or setting the tone with his effort and energy, Butler has a real shot to elevate his status and catch the attention of NBA teams.
And if history is any indication, don’t be surprised if Lamont Butler once again delivers when it matters most. He’s done it before. Now he’s ready to do it again—with the next stage of his basketball dream within reach