NBA Summer League Showdown: Peterson vs. Boozer

Two top rookies from June’s draft clashed on the court in a high-energy NBA Summer League game. Darryn Peterson, picked second overall, faced off against Cameron Boozer, the third pick, as the Utah Jazz played the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday night.

Peterson put on an impressive performance in his second Summer League game. He scored 25 points by hitting 8 of 15 shots, including three from beyond the arc and three free throws. He also added 12 assists, two rebounds, and two steals, contributing to the Jazz’s 109-100 victory. Reflecting on the game, Peterson mentioned he felt motivated to play against Boozer, who was chosen right after him in the draft.

“Always, I try to find something about everybody I play against,” Peterson said. “He was the pick after me, so I know he had an agenda today as well, so I couldn’t let the ride.”

Boozer also made significant contributions despite the loss, scoring 18 points with seven rebounds, four assists, and a steal. He was particularly effective from distance, sinking four 3-pointers and shooting 66.7% overall. His teammate, last season’s top rookie Cedric Coward, led the Grizzlies with 23 points.

The Jazz are set to play against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the next match of the 2026 Salt Lake City Summer League. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies will compete against the Atlanta Hawks.

In the lead-up to the June draft, considerable discussion centered on which player would be the first pick. Though neither Peterson nor Boozer secured that spot, it was awarded to BYU’s AJ Dybantsa. He had expressed confidence in his potential, stating he didn’t need to attend team workouts.

Dybantsa, now with the Washington Wizards, has yet to debut but is expected to play his first Summer League game this Thursday against Peterson and the Jazz. This debut is anticipated as the beginning of a possible rivalry between these emerging talents.