The Charlotte Hornets showcased a promising core during the 2026 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. Key Hornets standout performers, including rising sophomores and exciting new draft picks, took center stage to prove their readiness for expanded roles in the upcoming 2026-27 season.
Charlotte Hornets Standout Performers in Summer League
1. Liam McNeeley
Perhaps the most notable of the Hornets standout performers this summer was forward Liam McNeeley. Entering his second year in the league, the former UConn standout proved to be an absolute offensive weapon. McNeeley was named to the 2026 NBA Summer League Second Team after posting dominant numbers in Las Vegas. He averaged an impressive 21.7 points, 5 rebounds, and 3.3 assists while logging just under 27 minutes per contest.
His shooting efficiency was the talk of the tournament. In the Hornets’ opener against the Orlando Magic, McNeeley caught fire, burying seven of his eight three-point attempts on his way to 28 points. His ability to space the floor and knock down shots at over a 50 percent clip from beyond the arc makes him a prime candidate to earn significant rotational minutes under head coach Charles Lee.
2. Hannes Steinbach
Drafted 14th overall in the 2026 NBA Draft, Hannes Steinbach immediately joined the ranks of Hornets standout performers by rewarding the organization’s faith in him. The talented big man provided a physical presence and an incredibly reliable interior game. Over his Summer League appearances, Steinbach averaged 15.8 points and 9.2 rebounds while shooting a blistering 60.2 percent from the floor.
Operating almost exclusively around the basket, Steinbach showed off a polished offensive game and a knack for securing critical offensive rebounds. His highlight performance included a dominant 27- point, 15-rebound double-double. His ability to set robust screens and finish in the paint creates a fantastic foundation for his future in the frontcourt.
3. Christian Anderson Jr.
The Hornets also selected Texas Tech guard Christian Anderson Jr. in the 2026 NBA Draft with the 18th overall pick. Despite adjusting to the physicality of the NBA level, the undersized guard flashed elite potential as a playmaker and ball-handler, making him one of the most exciting Hornets standout performers to watch. While his jumpshot was occasionally up and down, Anderson’s passing and on-court vision frequently impressed the coaching staff and analysts alike.
He demonstrated a high basketball IQ by running efficient pick-and-roll sets and making highlight-reel reads against aggressive defenses. With the Hornets looking to establish long-term depth in the backcourt, Anderson’s poise under pressure and distributing capabilities suggest he could be a steal for Charlotte’s bench unit.
4. Michael Ajayi
A massive surprise among the Hornets standout performers this summer was Butler forward Michael Ajayi, who was signed immediately following the draft. Ajayi perfectly embodies the tough, versatile archetype that the Hornets front office has actively sought out. Across his five games, he averaged 8.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.2 steals, showcasing incredible defensive tenacity.
Ajayi proved to be an intelligent, low-usage playmaker who made his presence felt on both ends of the floor. He had several standout defensive possessions where he completely stifled opposing guards. Earning a two-way contract, Ajayi’s relentless hustle and glue-guy traits make him a player to watch closely as he develops with the Greensboro Swarm.
5. Ryan Kalkbrenner
Returning to Las Vegas after helping the Hornets win the Summer League Championship the prior year, second-year center Ryan Kalkbrenner simply did what he does best, solidifying his status as one of the reliable Hornets standout performers. The 7-foot-1 big man provided elite rim protection, set tremendous screens, and served as a reliable anchor for Charlotte’s defensive schemes. Having already made valuable regular-season contributions, Kalkbrenner used the Summer League to refine his timing, showing massive strides as a playmaker and rim protector.
Looking Ahead
While the team’s overall record in the summer showcase was nothing like the prior season, the individual development of these young players offers plenty of excitement for the Hornets. As these standouts continue to grow under Lee’s system, Charlotte’s future remains incredibly bright.
Main Image: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
