DaRon Holmes II Shines as Nuggets Defeat Clippers in Summer League

In a remarkable display of talent at the NBA 2K26 Summer League, DaRon Holmes II led the Denver Nuggets to an 81-76 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on July 18, 2025, at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. Holmes II's impressive stat line included 19 points, 17 rebounds, five assists, and two steals, showcasing his dominance in the paint and contributing significantly to the Nuggets' first win of the Summer League (1-3).

The Nuggets, despite their previous struggles, entered the matchup with renewed energy, leading 46-37 at halftime. They extended their advantage to as much as 25 points during the third quarter, demonstrating a strong offensive and defensive performance. However, the Clippers, who held a 3-1 record prior to the game, mounted a late comeback, scoring 13 unanswered points in the final minutes to narrow the gap to just three points. The Nuggets' defense, including 13 steals compared to the Clippers' seven, ultimately secured their victory as the Clippers failed to convert a game-tying shot in the closing seconds.

Holmes II's standout performance has drawn attention from analysts and fans alike. According to Joel Bartilotta, a sports analyst at RotoWire, "Holmes II not only scored efficiently but also controlled the boards, making him a crucial asset for the Nuggets moving forward." Alongside Holmes II, Spencer Jones contributed 17 points, six rebounds, and three steals, while Curtis Jones added 13 points, highlighting a collective effort from the Nuggets.

On the opposing side, the Clippers were led by Jordan Miller, who recorded a double-double with 23 points and 14 rebounds. Patrick Baldwin Jr. and Cam Christie added 16 points each, showcasing the Clippers' depth, but ultimately fell short against a determined Nuggets squad.

The game served as a crucial opportunity for both teams to evaluate their rosters ahead of the upcoming season. With the Summer League providing a platform for rookies and younger players to showcase their skills, the performance of Holmes II stands out as a potential indicator of his impact in the regular season.

Looking ahead, both teams will participate in consolation games on Saturday, July 22, 2025, against yet-to-be-determined opponents. This matchup not only highlights the competitive nature of the Summer League but also sets the stage for further development and evaluation of emerging talent across the league.

The NBA 2K26 Summer League continues to draw attention, not just for the games themselves but for the stories of young players like DaRon Holmes II, who are eager to make their mark in professional basketball. As the league progresses, analysts and fans will closely monitor how these performances translate into the regular season, particularly for teams like the Nuggets, who are looking to build momentum following a challenging previous season.