The 2026 NBA Summer League will once again feature strong Northwestern representation, giving Wildcats fans several familiar faces to follow throughout July.

Former Northwestern standouts Nick Martinelli, Brooks Barnhizer and Pete Nance are all expected to suit up for their respective NBA organizations as they continue pursuing larger roles at the professional level. Meanwhile, former Wildcat Sanjay Lumpkin will be leading from the sidelines as the Atlanta Hawks Summer League head coach.

Another former Northwestern guard, Pat Spencer, recently signed a two-way contract with the Phoenix Suns. While his Summer League status has not yet been officially announced, his signing adds yet another Wildcat to the growing list of players making an impact at the NBA level.

Here's everything Northwestern fans need to know before Summer League tips off.

Martinelli will make his professional debut after being selected by the Los Angeles Clippers in the 2026 NBA Draft.

The former Wildcats star finished his collegiate career as one of the most accomplished scorers in program history. During his senior season, Martinelli averaged 23.0 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game, establishing himself as one of the Big Ten's premier offensive players.

Summer League gives Martinelli his first opportunity to prove his scoring ability translates to the NBA game. His offensive versatility, rebounding and improved perimeter shooting will all be closely evaluated as he competes for a larger opportunity within the Clippers organization.

Summer League Schedule:

Barnhizer enters Summer League with plenty to prove after recently receiving a two-way qualifying offer from the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The qualifying offer reflects Oklahoma City's continued belief in the former Northwestern standout after selecting him in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft. Barnhizer spent much of his rookie season developing within the Thunder organization while earning valuable experience between the NBA and G League.

Now, Summer League becomes another important opportunity in his development. Known for his defensive versatility, rebounding and relentless motor, Barnhizer will be looking to show continued offensive growth while proving he can contribute against NBA-level competition.

A strong Summer League could help Barnhizer build momentum heading into training camp and strengthen his case for a larger role next season. Even if he begins the year in the G League, continued development there could prepare him for increased NBA opportunities with one of the league's deepest young rosters.

Summer League Schedule:

Pete Nance returns to Summer League after putting together the best NBA season of his career with the Milwaukee Bucks.

During the 2025-26 season, Nance appeared in 47 games, averaging 5.4 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.0 assist in 15.7 minutes per game while shooting an efficient 51.5% from the field and 42.0% from three-point range. He also recorded a career-high 23-point performance against the Houston Rockets in April, showing the offensive upside that has made him an intriguing frontcourt option.

Now entering another important offseason, Nance will look to continue building on that progress. Summer League provides another opportunity to showcase his ability to stretch the floor, defend multiple positions and provide reliable depth off the bench.

A productive showing could help Nance earn a larger role within Milwaukee's rotation next season while continuing to establish himself as a dependable NBA contributor. With more experience under his belt than many Summer League participants, he'll have an opportunity to demonstrate that he's ready for increased responsibilities at the NBA level.

Summer League Schedule:

Northwestern's impact during Summer League extends beyond the players.

Former Wildcat Sanjay Lumpkin will serve as the Atlanta Hawks' Summer League head coach, another milestone in his coaching career after joining Atlanta's NBA staff.

Lumpkin has steadily climbed through the coaching ranks since finishing his playing career and now gets the opportunity to lead the Hawks' Summer League squad in Las Vegas. His appointment continues Northwestern's growing influence throughout professional basketball, both on the court and on the bench.

Summer League Schedule:

With multiple former Wildcats competing on the court and another leading from the sidelines, Northwestern will once again have a strong presence during NBA Summer League. Whether it's Martinelli beginning his professional career, Barnhizer and Nance fighting for larger NBA roles or Lumpkin continuing his rise in coaching, Wildcats fans will have plenty of storylines to follow throughout July.