Iowa Stars Set to Shine in NBA Summer League

Iowa Alumni Shine in Vegas Summer League

The NBA Summer League has moved from Salt Lake City to Las Vegas, and four former Iowa players are featured on Summer League rosters. Oklahoma City brings Bennett Stirtz, Payton Sandfort, and Josh Dix, while Brendan Hausen suits up for the Memphis Grizzlies. These four are stepping onto a professional stage after their college careers in Iowa.

Hausen exploded for the Grizzlies on Tuesday, draining five 3‑pointers and scoring 21 points in a 96‑82 defeat to the Atlanta Hawks. His sharpshooting showcased his progress after leaving college. The 21‑point night was a strong audition for roster spots heading into the regular season.

Payton Sandfort has had a mixed Summer League debut. He logged a rough game on Tuesday, missing all nine shots and finishing scoreless in 19 minutes during Oklahoma City’s 103‑69 loss to the Utah Jazz. Earlier in the week, however, Sandfort posted a 13‑point outing on July 4 and a 25‑point performance with four 3s on July 6, highlighting his offensive upside.

Josh Dix enjoyed his best summer show on Tuesday, scoring a season‑high 16 points and connecting on four triples. Dix’s erratic shooting has been balanced by his ability to hit open looks, giving the Thunder a reliable swing‑man.

Bennett Stirtz has yet to make an impact in the most recent contest, sitting out Tuesday’s game. In his first two summer outings, however, Stirtz contributed 10 points and later 9 points. He is shooting 35 % from the field and 30 % from deep, indicating solid shooting percentages for a rookie.

Where to Watch Friday’s Games

• Memphis Grizzlies vs. Chicago Bulls, 7 p.m. CT, Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas.
• Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Los Angeles Lakers, 9 p.m. CT, Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas.

Both contests will be streamed on NBA League Pass, giving fans a chance to see the Iowa alumni up close. A strong performance from any of the four could boost their chances of earning a place on the respective NBA rosters. While the Summer League is a short showcase, it often serves as a proving ground for undrafted talent.

Iowa’s tradition of producing NBA talent continues, and these four players are eager to make a lasting impression. Their performances could echo the successes of former Hawkeyes who have excelled in the league.

Fans eager to follow the action can tune in Friday night and witness the next wave of Iowa basketball stars. The Vegas Summer League offers a glimpse of where each player stands on the path to the NBA.