The NBA Summer League is more of a stage for new and edge players, yet it is not a big money-maker for most who play.
While the games are key for their future, the pay is small, really small when you look at the huge deals full NBA players get.
According to The Playoffs, what a player makes in the NBA Summer League all depends on their deal with the team. Here is what players can expect to get in 2025:
Standard NBA contracts
Players with full NBA deals like first-round picks or returning veterans do not get more money for playing in the Summer League. Their play is seen as part of their off-season work and is part of their main pay.
Two-way deals
Players with two-way deals, who move between the NBA and its G League side, make a base salary of about $560,000 in 2025. They do not get extra cash for Summer League, but their trip, stay, and food are paid for.
Exhibit 10 Contracts
An Exhibit 10 deal is a one-year, non-guaranteed minimum salary deal that could turn into a two-way deal. These players do not make a Summer League pay, but can get a bonus up to $75,000 if they are cut and then stay at least 60 days with the G League side.
They also get a small daily cash to cover food, stay, and travel during the Summer League.
Summer Contracts
Players not signed or invited without a true NBA deal sign Summer Contracts, which do not come with a base pay. But they do get:
- A day-to-day cash for expenses
- Housing and food paid by the team
- Travel to and from games and practice
Even though the money is low, the spot can change a career. A good show at the Summer League could lead to a training camp invite, a two-way deal, or even a full NBA contract.
The importance of the Summer League
For many players, the Summer League is less about the money and more about the chance, as it is a massive opportunity to:
- Show skills to NBA bosses and scouts
- Get a place on a season team
- Start a pro career be it in the NBA, G League, or abroad
NBA Summer League players in 2025 are not making big cash but they are playing for something far better: a shot at making it in the league. Whether it is a top pick like Cooper Flagg or an undrafted hope, every player there is fighting for the same dream, to become an NBA star.
Read the full article here
