Eleven Kentucky Wildcats Ready to Shine on NBA Summer League Stage, Showcasing Program’s Unmatched Pipeline of Professional Talent
The NBA Summer League is more than just a proving ground for rookies and fringe players—it’s a showcase for future stars and a laboratory where franchises experiment with young talent, new systems, and roster depth. For the University of Kentucky, it’s also a recurring reminder of the program’s incredible legacy of developing NBA-ready athletes. In the 2025 NBA Summer League, an impressive 11 former Wildcats will take the floor, representing various teams, roles, and stages in their professional journey. Once again, Kentucky’s influence on the league is on full display, reinforcing the Wildcats’ reputation as a premier pipeline to the NBA.
The group of 11 spans the spectrum of experience, from newly drafted lottery picks to second-year players and undrafted free agents clawing for a spot on a final roster. It’s a testament to both Kentucky’s recruiting power and its commitment to preparing players for the rigors of the next level. These 11 former Wildcats aren’t just playing in the Summer League—they’re competing, evolving, and aiming to carve out long-term NBA roles.
Leading the charge is Rob Dillingham, the explosive guard who turned heads during his lone season in Lexington. Drafted in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves, Dillingham’s combination of speed, creativity, and scoring flair makes him a perfect fit for Summer League action. Minnesota is hoping to see him take command of the offense, showcase his deep shooting range, and grow as a playmaker. The Summer League provides him with a platform to prove he can run an NBA team and defend at a higher level.
Alongside Dillingham, Reed Sheppard—drafted by the Houston Rockets—brings a completely different style to the Summer League court. While Dillingham dazzles with flash, Sheppard impresses with efficiency, basketball IQ, and two-way versatility. Sheppard’s ability to knock down shots, defend multiple positions, and play within a system should allow him to make an immediate impact in Houston’s young rotation. His Summer League performance will offer an early glimpse into how quickly he can contribute at the pro level.
Antonio Reeves, a seasoned scorer who signed a two-way deal with the New Orleans Pelicans, is another former Wildcat drawing attention. After going undrafted, Reeves is out to prove that his efficient scoring, veteran savvy, and basketball maturity can translate against NBA-level athletes. Summer League is the perfect environment for him to showcase his ability to get buckets from all three levels and potentially earn a standard contract.
Jacob Toppin, entering his second Summer League with the New York Knicks, has made significant strides since leaving Kentucky. Known for his athleticism and defensive potential, Toppin will be watched closely for growth in his perimeter shooting and decision-making. If he can show offensive consistency, the Knicks may look to elevate him into a more prominent bench role during the regular season.
Oscar Tshiebwe, the 2022 National Player of the Year, is continuing his journey with the Indiana Pacers organization. While his dominance on the glass is already well-established, NBA scouts are looking to see if Tshiebwe can improve his lateral quickness and develop a reliable mid-range jumper. The Pacers value his hustle, rebounding instincts, and locker room presence. A strong Summer League showing could solidify his spot on the active roster or earn him more minutes in the G League with a potential call-up.
Chris Livingston, currently with the Milwaukee Bucks Summer League team, enters a pivotal offseason. After a quiet rookie season, Livingston needs to prove that he can be a consistent 3-and-D wing. His physical tools are undeniable, but it’s time for him to show a more refined offensive game and a better understanding of team defense. The Bucks are in a win-now mode, and for Livingston to stay relevant, his Summer League performance must signal readiness to contribute.
Kellan Grady, a graduate transfer who played one season at Kentucky, is back in the mix, this time with the Memphis Grizzlies. Grady’s deep shooting range and off-ball movement could provide spacing and depth for a Grizzlies team that values intelligent guards. While he may be more of a longshot to make an opening night roster, a productive Summer League could land him a G League contract or a two-way opportunity.
Brandon Boston Jr., now with the Los Angeles Clippers’ Summer League squad, is one of the most intriguing names among the 11 Wildcats. A highly skilled scorer with a smooth handle and natural offensive instincts, Boston has flashed brilliance in limited NBA minutes. The Clippers want to see more consistency and improved defensive effort. Boston could be one breakout performance away from forcing himself into the regular rotation.
Sahvir Wheeler, who finished his college career at Kentucky before transferring, has been given a chance by the Toronto Raptors. A quick, crafty point guard with elite vision, Wheeler is fighting to prove that size won’t hold him back at the next level. His ability to orchestrate an offense and set the tempo will be on full display in Las Vegas. With Toronto in rebuilding mode, a strong showing could lead to extended evaluation time.
TyTy Washington Jr., a former Kentucky guard drafted in 2022, is suiting up for the Orlando Magic. After a nomadic early NBA career, including multiple trades and stints in the G League, Washington is seeking stability. The Summer League is his opportunity to re-establish his value and remind scouts of his scoring prowess and court vision that made him a first-round pick.
Rounding out the group is Isaiah Jackson, a freakishly athletic big man with the Indiana Pacers. Jackson is no stranger to NBA action, having played meaningful minutes over the last two seasons. But with Indiana adding frontcourt depth, the Summer League is Jackson’s chance to reassert his value as a rim protector, rebounder, and pick-and-roll threat. If he dominates against younger competition, it will reaffirm his place in Indiana’s rotation.
What ties these 11 players together isn’t just their alma mater—it’s the legacy of Kentucky’s player development model. From Calipari’s tenure to the new Mark Pope era, the program has emphasized preparation for the professional level, whether it’s learning to play through adversity, adapting to different roles, or embracing team-first basketball. These Wildcats arrive at Summer League with more than talent—they come equipped with poise, toughness, and an understanding of what it takes to thrive in competitive environments.
For fans, watching these Kentucky alumni compete offers more than nostalgia—it’s a real-time reflection of the program’s reach and relevance. From national television to front-office eyes in the stands, the exposure is enormous. Young players can turn a few good games into career-changing contracts. For Kentucky, each standout performance reinforces its status as an elite factory for NBA talent.
The Summer League may not have the glamour of the regular season, but for these Wildcats, it’s a critical chapter. It’s where reputations are forged, questions are answered, and careers are launched or salvaged. Whether it’s a lottery pick like Sheppard proving he’s ready for the big stage or a grinder like Reeves trying to claw his way onto a roster, every dribble matters.
This year, 11 Kentucky players enter the spotlight in Las Vegas with different goals but one shared legacy. They’ve already made it from Rupp Arena to the professional ranks. Now, on basketball’s summer proving ground, they’ll try to take the next step.
For Big Blue Nation and basketball fans alike, the message is clear: Kentucky isn’t just a college program—it’s an NBA pipeline. And the 2025 Summer League is just the latest reminder.
