League: NCAAM Sport: College Sports Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Rockets rookie Bruce Thornton prepares for summer league debut

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 6, 2026, 12:55 AM

Last updated Jul 6, 2026

Rockets rookie Bruce Thornton prepares for summer league debut

Summary

Bruce Thornton, the Houston Rockets' 31st overall draft pick, will debut in the 2026 NBA summer league on Friday against the Denver Nuggets. Ohio State head coach Jake Diebler praised Thornton for his hard work and leadership, highlighting his scoring efficiency and ability to guard top players. Thornton, known for playing four consistent seasons at Ohio State, averaged 19.9 points per game as a senior and improved each year, contributing to the Buckeyes' return to the NCAA Tournament. The game will be televised nationally on ESPN2.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Thornton played 136 of 137 games during his college career.
•He averaged 35 minutes per game with a senior scoring average of 19.9 points.
•Thornton shot 55.4% from the field and 40.0% on three-pointers as a senior.
•The Rockets will play their summer league opener against the Nuggets at 5:30 p.m. Central.
•Thornton is expected to secure a standard NBA contract with the Rockets.

Latest Updates

12:55 AMYahoo Sports — Rockets rookie Bruce Thornton brings strong endorsement from Ohio State

What they're saying

"
“Guys are going to love him in the locker room because he plays so hard,” Ohio State coach Jake Diebler says of Rockets rookie Bruce Thornton.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

NCAAM College Sports