# NBA Summer League Was a Roaring Success for the Auburn Tigers
The NBA Summer League is always an exciting time for basketball fans, scouts, and players alike. It’s a chance for rookies to make their first impressions, for second-year players to show growth, and for undrafted talents to prove they belong. This year, the Auburn Tigers had a particularly strong showing, with several former players making waves in Las Vegas and beyond. From lottery picks to under-the-radar standouts, Auburn’s presence was felt across multiple teams, reinforcing the program’s rise as a powerhouse in developing NBA-ready talent.
One of the biggest stories of the Summer League was the performance of Jabari Smith Jr., the No. 3 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. After a solid rookie season with the Houston Rockets, Smith returned to Summer League with a clear mission: to dominate. And dominate he did. The 6’10” forward showcased his improved offensive game, knocking down threes with confidence, attacking the rim with authority, and displaying the defensive versatility that made him such a coveted prospect. In one standout performance, Smith dropped 33 points against the Portland Trail Blazers, reminding everyone why he was one of the most highly-touted players in his draft class. His ability to stretch the floor as a big man while also protecting the rim makes him a perfect fit for the modern NBA, and his Summer League showing suggests he’s ready for a breakout sophomore season.
Another former Tiger who turned heads was Walker Kessler, the 7’1” center who was traded to the Utah Jazz last year as part of the Rudy Gobert deal. Kessler had a strong rookie campaign, establishing himself as one of the league’s best shot-blockers, and he carried that momentum into the Summer League. While many expected him to sit out after a productive first year, Kessler used the opportunity to work on expanding his offensive game. He displayed improved footwork in the post, a reliable mid-range jumper, and even some playmaking ability out of the high post. Defensively, he was a force, altering shots and anchoring the Jazz’s defense whenever he was on the floor. Kessler’s development is a testament to Auburn’s ability to produce big men who can thrive in the NBA, and he looks poised to be a long-term starter in Utah.
Then there’s Sharife Cooper, the dynamic point guard who went undrafted in 2021 but has been grinding to earn his place in the league. Cooper played for the Cleveland Cavaliers’ Summer League squad and reminded everyone of his elite playmaking ability. His speed, court vision, and ability to break down defenses were on full display, and he had several games where he flirted with double-digit assists. While his shooting remains a work in progress, his knack for creating opportunities for his teammates makes him an intriguing prospect. Cooper’s journey has been one of perseverance, and his Summer League performance may have earned him another shot at an NBA roster spot or a two-way contract.
Isaac Okoro, the No. 5 pick in the 2020 draft, also represented Auburn well in Las Vegas. Now entering his fourth season with the Cavaliers, Okoro didn’t need to prove much, but he used the Summer League to refine his offensive game. Known primarily for his lockdown defense, Okoro showed improved ball-handling and a more reliable three-point shot, which will be crucial for his role in Cleveland. If he can consistently knock down open threes, he’ll see his minutes and impact increase significantly. Okoro’s growth is another example of how Auburn players continue to develop even after leaving college, and the Cavaliers clearly value his two-way potential.
Beyond the established names, undrafted Auburn products also made noise. Allen Flanigan, who went undrafted this year, signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the New Orleans Pelicans and made the most of his Summer League opportunity. The 6’6” wing showcased his athleticism, defensive versatility, and improved shooting, making a strong case for a two-way deal. Flanigan’s physical tools and defensive intensity give him a real chance to carve out a role in the NBA, even if it’s as a hustle player off the bench.
The success of Auburn players in the Summer League is no accident. Head coach Bruce Pearl has built a program that emphasizes player development, toughness, and adaptability—qualities that translate well to the professional level. Auburn’s fast-paced, defensive-minded system prepares players for the NBA’s demands, and the Tigers’ recent pipeline of talent proves that the program is here to stay as a breeding ground for pro prospects.
Looking ahead, the future is bright for Auburn in the NBA. With Smith and Kessler already establishing themselves as key pieces for their teams, and players like Cooper and Flanigan fighting for roster spots, the Tigers’ influence in the league is growing. Additionally, incoming Auburn prospects like freshman point guard Aden Holloway—a five-star recruit—could soon join the ranks of NBA-bound Tigers.
The NBA Summer League was a reminder of how far Auburn basketball has come. Once considered a football school with a modest basketball tradition, Auburn is now producing high-level NBA talent at an impressive rate. The Tigers’ success in Las Vegas this summer wasn’t just a fluke—it was a statement. Auburn is a program that develops winners, and its players are proving they belong on the biggest stage. As the NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on these former Tigers to see how they build on their Summer League performances. One thing is certain: Auburn’s presence in the league is only getting stronger.
