2023 NBA Summer League: Top Rookie Performers From July 3 Games

When looking back at the opening night slate of games on July 3, these three rookies shined brightest in NBA Summer League.

It was opening day for NBA Summer League on Monday, as five games took place across two venues. Between Salt Lake City and Sacramento, some of the best incoming rookies took the floor and made their respective debuts. While these types of settings are more directionally indicative and shouldn't be a true measure of how a player will end up looking in their career, it was fascinating to see these initial games.

Which three rookies were the top performers in yesterday’s slate of games?

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Chet Holmgren (Oklahoma City Thunder)

Stephen R. Sylvanie / USA TODAY Sports

15 Points | 9 Rebounds | 4 Blocks

In what was a highly anticipated return for Holmgren, there was clearly rust to be shaken off early. After a handful of plays that didn't go his way, the 7-footer got back into a groove in the second quarter and turned the entire game around. Once Holmgren got going, Oklahoma City opened up a lead of nearly 30 points against Utah. Getting it done on both ends, he notched four blocks while also being a primary contributor on the offensive end.

Jaime Jaquez Jr. (Miami Heat)

David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

22 Points | 3 Rebounds | 3 Assists

The expectation from many is that Jaquez is able to contribute immediately for the Heat as a rookie, which was further quantified by his NBA Summer League debut. It became clear early in the game that he was one of the best players on the entire floor. Converting on over 50% of his 15 shots from the floor, Jaquez proved he can score at all three levels. 

Brandin Podziemski (Golden State Warriors)

Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

12 Points | 6 Rebounds | 6 Assists

One of the most well-rounded guards in this class, Podziemski has a real chance at notching a triple-double or two as a rookie if he gets the playing time to do so. He was an incredible positional rebounder at Santa Clara last season and has facilitation upside. While he didn't score a ton in his summer league debut, notching six assists and six boards was highly impressive. 

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