Traveled out to Las Vegas for a weekend to check out this year’s NBA Summer League hosted at the Thomas & Mack Center! This was a first of a couple things, both going to the desert city and the Summer League. Being a brand headquartered in Orlando you know we had to watch the Orlando Magic (plus check out our #1 Draft Pick, Paolo Banchero).
Started Saturday off with a visit to a culinary institution of Las Vegas, the Peppermill diner. Highly recommend the French Toast Collage.
That afternoon, trekking to our seats out of the 110° Las Vegas heat, the Orlando Magic were about to tip it off against the “visiting” Sacramento Kings. The energy in the building was interesting. Everyone knew they were about to see something history in the saga of #1 NBA Draft Pick, Paolo Banchero.
A few of the fans I talked to said they were big college basketball fans, so it made sense that they would be hyped to see how some of the college guys were ramping up to the pace and overall game of the NBA.
What became a double OT, truly exciting game, ended with the Sudden Death point being scored by the Orlando Magic; final score: 94-92.
Next game up was OKC Thunder vs. the Detroit Pistons. Getting front row tickets to the Josh Giddey and Chet Holmgren show was amazing (especially considering that we paid $40 for all day tickets, still come early to get the best seats possible).
It was unfortunate to see Jaden Ivey experience an ankle injury early in the game, hope he has a speedy recovery. Josh and Chet looked great but it was the Pistons Killian Hayes and Frank Jackson who stole the show with a combined 52 points that ultimately toppled the Thunder; 110-101.
A trip to Secret Pizza for a late lunch was much needed after watching two marquee Summer League games. With a flight near noon on Sunday, it was time to check out the Wynn.
Known as one of Las Vegas’ finest gambling establishments, we didn’t participate in any games but it was fun to see the winners and losers. A dinner visit to the Victory Burger in the casino was dinner and a solid cap to our evening plans. Next year I’m definitely making a longer trip out to NBA Summer League.