The biggest story for the Houston Rockets heading into NBA 2K26 Summer League play was second-year guard Reed Sheppard, who was selected to play on the squad.

In Friday’s 2025 NBA summer-league opener, Reed Sheppard led the Rockets with 28 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 steals during a close loss to the Clippers.

Over the past few days, Sheppard has become a teacher and leader for a collection of players desperate to crack the end of a tight Rockets rotation. It’s an unusual scene considering Sheppard’s typical reticent nature. But it’s part of an offseason aim to make Sheppard more of a prominent figure and a star in his role.

The second-year guard had 28 points and also played strong defense as he helped Houston rally from a double-digit deficit.

The OKC Thunder will continue its Las Vegas Summer League run with a game against the Indiana Pacers on Saturday. Here's what you need to know.