Charlotte Hornets beat Sacramento Kings to clinch NBA Summer League Championship
Finally, the wait is over! The Charlotte Hornets are the 2025 NBA Summer League Champions. The Hornets defeated the Sacramento Kings 83-78 to clinch the title on Sunday. It's also the first Summer League championship win for the Charlotte Hornets in their NBA history, finishing with a 6-0 record.
First Summer League championship win for the Charlotte Hornets
The Charlotte Hornets were without their stars — Liam McNeeley, Tidjane Salaun, and Sion James — once again. They were also without their center, PJ Hall, who signed a two-way deal with the Memphis Grizzlies. Despite all that, the team created history and won the coveted championship.
Kon Knueppel
wins MVP
Kon Knueppel was named the Summer League Championship Game MVP. This was his second MVP title, after being awarded the honor following the ACC Tournament with Duke.
Knueppel posted 21 points and five rebounds in the title game. He also shot 4-for-11 from the 3-point line.
Knueppel, the fourth overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, was seen in action with a bandage over his right eye. He received five stitches after taking a hard fall during a game on Saturday.
Apart from Knueppel, Ryan Kalkbrenner scored 15 points, and three other players each scored 11 for the Hornets.
For the Sacramento Kings, who won titles in 2014 and 2021, this was their first defeat in three trips to the final.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Compare Spreads: Bitcoin vs Ethereum CFDs
IC Markets
Learn More
Undo
The Hornets' social media handle posted a graphic of their team with "Champions" written over it.
Danielle Stein, a sports anchor, took to social media and said: 'I said before, if we were going to come here, we should win,' said Knueppel in his postgame speech. 'For the first time in franchise history, the Charlotte Hornets have won the #NBA2KSummerLeague. 83-78 final vs. Sacramento Kings. May be Summer League to some, but love how this indicates a culture shift and a desire to win/compete, anchored by their young core and rookies.
'
The NBA Summer League is a platform to test out new players like rookies, second-year players, and those from G League teams before they get a chance to join the NBA full-time. Now, the excitement shifts to the upcoming season after this historic win by the Charlotte Hornets. The 2025-26 NBA schedule will likely be unveiled in August — and fans can't wait.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Jimmy Graham announces retirement: A look at his net worth, NFL legacy and life beyond football
Jimmy Graham announces retirement: A look at his net worth, NFL legacy, and life beyond football (Image Via X) From always being ready to call it quits, one of the best known tight ends in the NFL is having risen to fame with the New Orleans Saints, Jimmy Graham stated he intends to formally retire from football this year. Though he hasn't played since the 2023 season, he has kept active with some amazing personal challenges. Fans had been waiting to hear if Jimmy Graham would return to the field again, now he's made his decision, and it's a full-circle moment. Jimmy Graham to officially retire with the New Orleans Saints Jimmy Graham announced on July 22, 2025, on the New Orleans Saints' official website, that he would retire from the NFL later this year with the team where his career started, the New Orleans Saints. New Orleans Saints chose the 38-year-old in the third round in 2010; he then played five first seasons there. Later he played for the Seattle Seahawks, Chicago Bears, and Green Bay Packers. — _mlfootball (@_mlfootball) Over 13 NFL seasons, Jimmy Graham had 719 catches, 8,545 receiving yards, and 89 touchdowns. With sixteen touchdown catches, he led the NFL in 2013 and made the Pro Bowl five times. Having signed a one-year contract with the Saints in 2023, he played 13 games and recorded four it will be sometime in 2025, his final retirement date has not been made public. Jimmy Graham's net worth in 2025 estimated at $35 million As of July 2025, Jimmy Graham's estimated net worth is around $35 million, according to Spotrac and public salary data. Most of the cash the ex-NFL player made came during his 13-year football career. Among the teams with which he signed big contracts are the Chicago Bears, Seattle Seahawks, New Orleans Saints, and Green Bay Packers. On a one-year agreement in 2023, he came back to the New Orleans Saints before once more leaving football. Brand sponsorships and off-field initiatives provided extra money for Jimmy Graham. Jimmy Graham built his wealth through NFL salaries, deals and his life beyond football Most of Jimmy Graham's fortune comes from the NFL. He earned over $70 million in career salary, according to Spotrac. He had major deals with top teams and was once the highest-paid tight end in the league. During his playing years, Jimmy Graham also worked with companies in the fitness and sports sectors. Besides football, he possesses premium real estate, operates private planes, and participates in high-priced activities such the Arctic Challenge. July 2025's 10-day trip supported charities and revealed to admirers a new aspect of Jimmy Graham. His success both on and off the field demonstrates how he developed both financial resources and meaning throughout the years. Also Read: New Orleans Pelicans Rookie Derik Queen Out 12 Weeks After Wrist Surgery Following Breakout NBA Summer League Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
La La Anthony celebrates niece's birthday as Carmelo Anthony reflects on loyalty and brotherhood in NBA
Carmelo Anthony's ex-wife recently made the news (Image via Getty Images) La La Anthony , the ex-wife of NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, recently shared warm birthday wishes for her niece on social media, demonstrating the strong family ties. On July 22, she wrote a birthday post dedicating her on Instagram. A number of the birthday girl's beach photos were also included in the post. Meanwhile, La La Anthony herself attracted attention two days ago with her gorgeous swimwear photos which she also uploaded on Instagram. Carmelo Anthony speaks on loyalty while La La Anthony shares heartfelt birthday tribute to her niece Celebrating this significant day, the actress and TV personality sent a message and old pictures, showing her admiration and pride in each text. She took to her Instagram Story and wrote: 'My niece. My cancer twin. Happy Birthday @saditysanea. Beautiful from the inside out!!! Love you!!!' This action demonstrates La La Anthony 's dual roles as a loyal family member and a loving aunt. Her off-screen persona as a devoted mother who cherishes her loved ones is revealed through these intimate moments. La La Anthony is actually NBA icon Carmelo Anthony's ex-wife. They got divorced in 2021 after being married since 2010. They also had a son, Kiyan. The socialite has highlighted on many occasions that they are still close friends and co-parents despite everything. Meanwhile, Carmelo Anthony was in the news recently after he complained about the Milwaukee Bucks waiving their leading star, Damian Lillard. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Affordable Mobile Plan for Switzerland Lebara Learn More Undo In a post that was shared on Instagram announcing the news, the NBA icon left a series of comments denouncing the move. He wrote: 'SMH… 'BUSINESS PER USUAL!!! NO LOYALTY IN SPORTS!!!' Carmelo Anthony recently supported Damian Lillard (Image via Getty Images) Damian Lillard will be sidelined for a long period while he heals after tearing his Achilles during the playoffs' opening round. Carmelo Anthony and Damian Lillard shared the court during their two seasons with the Portland Trailblazers, which ran from 2019 to 2021. As two NBA legends from different periods brought together by a love of the game and a dedication to supporting one another, their relationship now serves as a monument to brotherhood in the league. Also read: Milwaukee Bucks risk losing Damian Lillard as the star now open to joining Boston Celtics after past rejection Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Los Angeles Lakers Reportedly Among Five Contenders Eyeing $26.2 Million Golden State Warriors Star in Free Agency
LeBron James at the Playoffs against the Timberwolves (Image via Imagn). Gary Payton II has quickly become one of the most intriguing names left in NBA free agency. According to NBA insider Evan Sidery, the Los Angeles Lakers are among five teams actively pursuing the defensive standout, joining the Milwaukee Bucks, Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns, and Golden State Warriors in the race for his signature. Why the Lakers Are Interested In Gary For a Lakers team that struggled with perimeter defense last season and often lacked energy off the bench, Gary Payton II checks several important boxes. Known for his relentless on-ball pressure and ability to disrupt offensive flow, Payton would immediately upgrade the team's defensive identity. The Lakers' recent playoff exits have underscored a need for two-way players who can stay on the floor in high-stakes moments. While Payton isn't a high-volume scorer, his hustle, versatility, and winning pedigree make him a strong fit for a roster still built around LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Gary Payton II's 2024-25 Season in Numbers Despite not being a featured option on offense, Gary Payton II was highly efficient in his minutes during the 2024-25 season. Gary Payton II - 2024-25 Stats Gary Payton II (Image via NBA) Category Stat Games Played 62 Points per Game 6.5 Rebounds per Game 3.0 Assists per Game 1.3 Field Goal % 57.4% 3-Point % 32.6% These numbers show that while Payton isn't a primary scorer, he brings elite efficiency and consistency in his role—something the Lakers bench lacked at times last season. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Is Catching Attention Among People Managing Blood Sugar bio-nutrabalance Undo How He Fits Into Darvin Ham's System Darvin Ham has placed a premium on defensive intensity and switchability, and Payton fits perfectly into that vision. His ability to guard multiple positions and generate fast-break opportunities would allow Ham to deploy more aggressive defensive schemes, especially when resting starters. A Perfect Fit with Marcus Smart in the Los Angeles Lakers One of the Los Angeles Lakers' biggest offseason moves was the acquisition of Marcus Smart, a former Defensive Player of the Year. Adding Gary Payton II to the backcourt would give Los Angeles two of the best perimeter defenders in the league—a nightmare scenario for opposing guards. Defensive Impact: Smart + Payton Duo - Both are elite at generating steals and deflections - High basketball IQ allows seamless switching in defensive rotations - Toughness, leadership, and hustle traits shared by both - Capable of guarding 1-3 positions, allowing LeBron and AD to conserve energy - Both thrive in chaotic, high-effort defensive settings With Smart operating as the primary floor general and defensive leader, Payton could play the role of an energizer—disrupting passing lanes, pushing the pace, and covering elite scorers. Their chemistry could quickly turn the Lakers' backcourt into one of the most feared defensive tandems in the NBA. Competition in the Market Evan Sidery's report confirms that the Los Angeles Lakers aren't alone in their interest: 'The Milwaukee Bucks, Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers, Phoenix Suns, and Golden State Warriors are all keeping tabs on the defensive-minded guard,' wrote Sidery. The Suns could use Payton's defense to bolster their second unit behind a star-studded starting five, while the Heat and Bucks view him as a glue guy who fits seamlessly into a contender's culture. Meanwhile, the Warriors remain a sentimental and tactical destination, given Payton's championship history with the franchise. Los Angeles Lakers' Urgency and Roster Implications With limited cap flexibility, the Los Angeles Lakers must act quickly if they want to land Payton. He wouldn't command a massive deal, making him a financially smart addition who could thrive in Los Angeles' structured yet fast-paced system. If acquired, Payton would likely slot in as a key rotational guard, sharing minutes with Gabe Vincent and Jalen Hood-Schifino, while also offering injury insurance for defensive assignments in critical games. The Los Angeles Lakers' reported interest in Gary Payton II isn't just about stats—it's about identity. A player who embraces defense, plays with intensity, and has a winning background aligns with everything the franchise hopes to reestablish after a turbulent season. Also read: Lakers Rumor: Dalton Knecht's Trade Value Reportedly Tanks After Disappointing Summer League Showing With Los Angeles Adding Payton alongside Marcus Smart could create one of the grittiest and most disruptive backcourts in the NBA—a defensive pairing that would instantly raise the Lakers' championship ceiling. As free agency continues, Rob Pelinka and the front office will need to move decisively to bring that vision to life. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
