For the first time since 2008, NBA Summer League games will be played in Salt Lake City.
On Monday evening, the Utah Jazz announced they will host the 2015 Utah Jazz Summer League at EnergySolutions Arena from July 6-9. The six-game, four-team event will consist of the Jazz, Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers and the current defending NBA champion San Antonio Spurs.
“Jazz fans are among the most loyal and passionate supporters you will find anywhere in the world, and I can’t tell you how thrilled we are to be able to bring them the Utah Jazz Summer League beginning this July,” said Utah Jazz president Randy Rigby, via press release. “On behalf of the Jazz and the Miller family, I would also like to express our gratitude to Adam Silver and the NBA for their support in helping us return Summer League basketball to Utah.”
Each team will play three games over four days as part of nightly double-headers on Monday, July 6; Tuesday, July 7; and Thursday, July 9. No league games will be played on Wednesday, July 8.
“Summer League is a very valuable resource for player development, talent evaluation and organizational growth. The opportunity to once again host our own league is one that we have been interested in for a number of years,” said Jazz general manager Dennis Lindsey. “We are pleased to see this possibility become a reality with the creation of the Utah Jazz Summer League, and are proud to play host to three class organizations like the Celtics, 76ers and Spurs.”
NBA summer leagues typically feature recently drafted rookies playing with their new teams for the first time, along with young (second- or third-year) players, selected free agents and undrafted rookies looking for an opportunity to make it into “the Association.”
Details on the 2015 Utah Jazz Summer League, including a complete schedule of games, ticket package options, broadcast information and team rosters, will be announced at later dates.
For further information, click here for the NBA's press release on the 2015 Utah Jazz Summer League.
Xoel CÀrdenas is a writer with Deseret News sports. He is also an FC Barcelona columnist at SB Nation and a columnist for Fox Deportes. Follow him on Twitter @XoelCardenas.