While many NBA stars are scouted years in advance, some players forge a different path, proving that talent, perseverance, and work ethic can lead to the league. Summer league offers the first look at these players against professional competition.

Keaton Wagler, a guard for the LA Clippers, was a low four-star recruit who received limited high-major offers. Despite a slender frame, his playmaking and shooting impressed Illinois coaches, leading to a standout college season where he earned Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors. He is seen as a potential long-term combo guard.

Ebuka Okorie, drafted by the Detroit Pistons, was a three-star prospect who developed significantly at Stanford. After initially committing to Harvard, he blossomed into an ACC scoring leader. His nearly 6-8 wingspan and scoring ability have already shown promise in summer league.

Yaxel Lendeborg, a forward for the Golden State Warriors, had an unconventional journey, starting in junior college due to academic ineligibility. He developed into a two-time junior college All-American before transferring to UAB and then Michigan, where he became a consensus All-American and helped lead the Wolverines to a national title.