Houston Rockets Dominate Los Angeles Lakers in NBA 2K25 Summer League Opener (July 12, 2024)
lakers vs rockets summer league box score The Houston Rockets kicked off their NBA 2K25 Summer League campaign with a convincing 99-80 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday, July 12th. The win showcased strong performances from their young core, while the Lakers struggled to find their rhythm.
Rockets’ Young Guns Shine lakers vs rockets summer league box score
lakers vs rockets summer league box score The Rockets’ top-three draft pick, Reed Sheppard, displayed his potential with a game-high 23 points. He shot efficiently, going 9 for 17 from the field, and also contributed with 5 assists, 3 blocks, and 4 rebounds. Fellow rookie Cam Whitmore impressed with a well-rounded performance, scoring 20 points while grabbing 10 rebounds and dishing out 4 assists. He also displayed defensive prowess with 4 steals.
Dalton Knecht Leads Lakers Scoring
Despite the loss, undrafted free agent Dalton Knecht emerged as a bright spot for the Lakers. He led the team in scoring with 25 points, shooting 9 for 18 from the field and knocking down 5 three-pointers. lakers vs rockets summer league box score He also added 6 rebounds and 4 assists to his stat line.
Bronny James with a Solid Showing
Highly anticipated rookie Bronny James, son of NBA legend LeBron James, finished with a respectable stat line of 8 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals. While his scoring was modest, he displayed flashes of defensive ability and hustle throughout the game.
Close First Half Followed by Rockets Surge
There was intense competition in the first half as both sides traded baskets.. The Rockets held a narrow lead at halftime.However, there was a change in momentum in the second half. The Rockets tightened up their defense and found their offensive rhythm, extending their lead throughout the third and fourth quarters. The Lakers struggled to keep pace and ultimately fell short.
Box Score Breakdown
Houston Rockets (99)
- Reed Sheppard: 23 PTS, 5 AST, 3 BLK, 4 REB
- Cam Whitmore: 20 PTS, 10 REB, 4 AST, 4 STL
- Jabari Smith Jr. (2nd Year): 15 PTS, 7 REB
- Tari Eason (2nd Year): 12 PTS, 6 REB, 3 AST
Los Angeles Lakers (80)
- Dalton Knecht: 25 PTS, 6 REB, 4 AST
- Bronny James: 8 PTS, 5 REB, 2 STL
- Scotty Pippen Jr. (2nd Year): 12 PTS, 4 REB, 3 AST
- Max Christie (2nd Year): 10 PTS, 3 REB
Key Stats Comparison
| Stat | Rockets | Lakers |
| Field Goal % | 48.2% | 39.1% |
| Three-Point % | 36.4% | 31.3% |
| Free Throw % | 78.6% | 75.0% |
| Rebounds | 48 | 42 |
| Assists | 22 | 18 |
| Steals | 11 | 7 |
| Blocks | 7 | 2 |
Looking Ahead
The Rockets’ victory served as a positive start to their summer league campaign. Their young players showed promise, particularly Sheppard and Whitmore. lakers vs rockets summer league box score The Lakers, on the other hand, will need to improve their overall efficiency and find a way to integrate their young talent more effectively. Both teams will look to bounce back in their next summer league outings.
Conclusion
The NBA 2K25 Summer League opener provided a glimpse into the future of the NBA. Young players like Sheppard, Whitmore, and James showcased their skills and potential. While the Rockets emerged victorious, both teams have valuable takeaways and areas for improvement as they move forward in the summer league schedule.