SAN FRANCISCO, CA – July 5, 2025 – The highly anticipated 2025 NBA Summer League kicked off with a bang at the Chase Center, as the Golden State Warriors edged out their California rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, in a hard-fought California Classic opener. The final score, 89-84, marked a successful start for the Warriors’ young talent, while the Lakers, despite a valiant effort, now look to rebound in the remaining tournament games. The buzz surrounding the game, however, was as much about who wasn’t on the court as who was, with Lakers sophomore Bronny James remaining on the sidelines in street clothes.
Warriors’ Collective Effort Shines
Golden State showcased a balanced attack, demonstrating the depth and potential of their summer squad. While no single player dominated the scoring, contributions came from across the roster. Forward Jackson Rowe was a standout for the Warriors, tallying 13 points and 8 rebounds, showcasing his versatility on both ends of the floor. Isaiah Mobley matched Rowe’s 13 points, adding 2 rebounds, and 3 assists, providing a strong inside presence. Guards Jaden Shackelford and Blake Hinson chipped in with 11 and 12 points respectively, with Shackelford hitting 3 key three-pointers to stretch the Lakers’ defense. The Warriors’ collective effort, particularly in the third quarter, proved pivotal in securing their opening victory in the NBA Summer League. Their ball movement and defensive intensity, hallmarks of the Golden State system, were evident as they controlled the pace for significant stretches.
Lakers’ Mixed Bag: Stewarts Shines, Knecht Seeks Consistency
For the Los Angeles Lakers, it was a tale of mixed fortunes. While the team showed flashes of promise, they ultimately fell short. Guard D.J. Steward was the offensive spark plug for the Purple and Gold, leading all scorers with an impressive 20 points on efficient 7-of-10 shooting from the field. His play was a bright spot for the Lakers, providing optimism for his development. Forward Cole Swider also had a strong outing, dropping 24 points with a remarkable 6-of-8 from beyond the arc, showcasing his sharpshooting prowess.
However, the spotlight also fell on Dalton Knecht, the Lakers’ 2024 draft pick and a player entering his second season with heightened expectations. Knecht, known for his scoring ability, struggled to find his rhythm, finishing with 10 points on a disappointing 3-of-13 shooting from the field, including 0-for-6 from three-point range. His performance left some Lakers fans with concerns, especially given the increased scrutiny on his development this summer. This NBA rookie showcase is a crucial platform for players like Knecht to prove their growth, and he’ll undoubtedly be looking to bounce back in upcoming games.
Bronny James Sits: A Summer League Mystery
Perhaps the biggest storyline of the night was the absence of Bronny James. The second-year guard, who was a significant talking point heading into the California Classic, was seen in warmups but remained sidelined. While no official reason was immediately provided for his non-participation, it left fans and analysts speculating. James, who averaged 2.3 points in 27 NBA games last season, and significantly more in the G-League, is looking to carve out a larger role in his sophomore campaign. His status for the Lakers’ next Summer League games will undoubtedly be a key focus. Will he make his Summer League debut in the next California Classic fixture? Only time will tell.
Beyond the Box Score: The Summer League Narrative
The NBA Summer League is more than just wins and losses; it’s a critical testing ground for young talent and a glimpse into the future of the league. Rookies and developing players are vying for roster spots, two-way contracts, and an opportunity to impress coaching staffs. For the Warriors, this victory against a rival is a confidence booster. For the Lakers, it’s an early lesson and a chance to refine their strategy. The California Classic continues with the Lakers facing the San Antonio Spurs next, followed by a matchup against the Miami Heat, before both teams head to the larger Las Vegas Summer League.
As the NBA offseason progresses, every dribble, pass, and shot in these summer basketball games holds weight. The Warriors have set the tone, but the Lakers, even without Bronny James on the court for game one, will be eager to prove their mettle and showcase the potential of their young core in the remaining Summer League schedule. The journey to the regular season has just begun, and the NBA prospects on display promise an exciting summer of basketball.
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