NBA Summer League Grades for Illinois Alums: Washington Wizards' Will Riley

The article grades Will Riley's performance in the 2025 NBA Summer League with the Washington Wizards, noting he played only two games. In Game 1, a 103-84 loss to the Phoenix Suns, Riley recorded 5 points (2-for-6 shooting), 3 rebounds, and 3 assists. In Game 2, a 102-96 win over the Brooklyn Nets, he scored 16 points (5-for-6 shooting) with 3 assists, highlighted by a social media post emphasizing his 16 points and 3 three-pointers. His averages across both games were 10.5 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists.

Due to limited playing time, a full assessment of Riley is challenging. Offensively, he appeared passive—especially in his first game and parts of the second—and rarely handled the ball. Defensively, he maintained good positioning and effort but was frequently overpowered by stronger opponents due to his slim, 19-year-old frame. Compounding this, Riley was often the last option on a roster crowded with young perimeter talent, though he maximized his limited opportunities.

Looking ahead, Riley faces a difficult path to significant NBA minutes as a rookie. The Wizards' depth at wing includes veterans Khris Middleton and CJ McCollum, along with young players Kyshawn George and Tre Johnson, who are ahead of him in the rotation. As a result, Riley is likely to spend most of his rookie season developing in the G League.