League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Bruce Thornton scores game-high 27 points in Rockets summer league opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 11, 2026, 12:58 AM

Last updated Jul 11, 2026

Bruce Thornton scores game-high 27 points in Rockets summer league opener

Summary

In the Houston Rockets' 2026 NBA summer league opener, rookie Bruce Thornton delivered a standout performance with a game-high 27 points in a 97-86 victory over the Denver Nuggets. The 22-year-old guard showcased his skills over 35 minutes on the court, registering 7 assists, 3 rebounds, and 3 steals, while leading the Rockets with a plus-20 rating. Thornton connected on 7 of 18 field goals and was perfect from the free-throw line. His performance marks a promising start after being selected 31st overall in the recent draft. The Rockets continue their summer league schedule with a game against the Toronto Raptors on July 12.

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By the Numbers

•Thornton shot 38.9% from the field, including 37.5% from three-point range.
•He committed only one turnover while serving as a primary ball handler.
•Other notable performances included Isaiah Crawford with 17 points and Quadir Copeland with 14 points.
•The Rockets will face the Toronto Raptors next on July 12.

Latest Updates

12:30 PMYahoo Sports — Bruce Thornton continues to show two-way production in NBA Summer League
4:15 PMYahoo Sports — Rockets rookie Bruce Thornton leaves coach Will Dunn speechless after record-breaking debut
12:17 PMYahoo Sports — Bruce Thornton scores 27 in first pro game, turns heads instantly
12:58 AMYahoo Sports — Rockets rookie Bruce Thornton scores game-high 27 in summer opener

What they're saying

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Rookie guard Bruce Thornton scored a game-high 27 points in Houston’s opening win at summer league, and the Rockets were +20 in his 35 minutes played.
— Yahoo Sports