LAS VEGAS – The NBA Summer League kicked off at the Thomas & Mack Center on Thursday, showcasing the future of basketball with standout performances from AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson, the top two picks of the 2026 NBA Draft. The arena buzzed with excitement, featuring a prominent sign stating, "TOMORROW'S STARS PLAY HERE," alongside images of Dybantsa and Jalen Brunson, the 2026 NBA Finals MVP.

As the game unfolded, Dybantsa made an immediate impact, scoring 11 points in the first quarter, highlighted by an impressive dunk. Peterson matched the energy with a corner three-pointer, demonstrating their potential to become future stars. The atmosphere was electric, with NBA legends like Paul Pierce in attendance, who remarked, "I've already seen everything I need to see," reflecting the excitement surrounding the duo.

Despite their achievements, both players had room for improvement. Dybantsa struggled with his three-point shooting, missing all five attempts, while Peterson recorded eight turnovers. Nevertheless, Dybantsa finished the game with 27 points, tying the record for most points by a former No. 1 pick in their Summer League debut, and Peterson contributed 24 points.

Their performances hinted at a promising future, echoing the trajectories of past NBA stars. While their careers are just beginning, the glimpses of talent displayed on Thursday suggest that both Dybantsa and Peterson could become pivotal figures in the league. As they left the court, it was clear that the NBA's next generation is ready to make its mark.