Players and Cards to Know
The 2024 NBA Summer League kicked off in Las Vegas last Friday with seven games, including a debut for top overall draft pick Zaccharie Risacher of the Atlanta Hawks, who faced off against fellow Frenchman and #2 pick Alex Sarr of the Washington Wizards. The Summer League is an entertaining event for NBA fans and collectors, while also being a valuable tool for those looking to see which rookies and young veterans may be ready to breakout this season. And, while it’s no secret that the most eyes on this year’s edition will be squarely on Bronny James of the Los Angeles Lakers, let’s take this opportunity to highlight some other players worth a look.
2024 TOPPS NOW® Basketball #D1AUT Zaccharie Risacher Auto /99
player info
• Smooth wing
• Drafted 1st overall
• Earned pro experience in France
• Player Comp: Michael Porter Jr.
What’s At Stake?
• Secure starting spot for Atlanta Hawks
• Show off 3-and-D bona fides
• Prove ability to finish in paint
What They’re saying
• “I probably don’t know anybody more talented than him in this draft class. He can do pretty much anything.” – Victor Wembanyama
2024 TOPPS NOW® Basketball Card #D6AUT Zach Edey Auto /99
player info
• Dominant post scorer
• Drafted 9th Overall
• 2-time NCAA Player of the Year
• Player ComP: Jonas Valančiūnas
What’s At Stake?
• Make claim to contribute for contending Grizzlies
• Show that his game can translate at next level
• Answer questions about ability on defensive end
What They’re saying
• “So many qualities that we really love in our bigs and I think he’s going to be a great addition to our group.” – Taylor Jenkins, Memphis Grizzlies Head Coach
2024 TOPPS NOW® Basketball Card # D7AUT Cody Williams Auto /99
player info
• Hyper-Athletic Wing
• Drafted 10th overall
• Brother of OKC Thunder star Jalen Williams
• Player Comp: Brandon Ingram
What’s At Stake?
• Opportunity for solid role on young Jazz squad
• Quiet concerns about durability
• Show off high ceiling
What They’re saying
• “Not only is he one of the best players I’ve ever coached, he’s also one of the best human beings I’ve been around.” – Williams’ former coach Rich Thornton
2023-24 Topps G League Ankle Breakers Blue AB-5 Matas Buzelis
player info
• 6’ 10” potential point-forward
• Drafted 11th Overall
• Great vision and feel for size
• Player Comp: Franz wagner
What’s At Stake?
• Major minutes for new-look Chicago Bulls
• Quell worries after shooting only 27.3% from three in G League
• Demonstrate ability to handle physicality
What They’re saying
• “Don’t worry about those 3-point percentages last year — his shot is much better than that, trust me.” – John Hollinger, The Athletic
2023-24 Topps G League Chrome #81 Justin Champagnie
player info
• 2023-24 2nd team All-NBA G League
• Undrafted in 2021
• Versatile small forward
What’s At Stake?
• Claim roster spot on rebuilding Washington Wizards squad
• Show off improved shooting range
• Continue to stuff stat sheet
What They’re saying
• “All he does is go out there and play really hard and chase the ball.” – Former Coach Nick Nurse
