The Philadelphia 76ers concluded their Summer League play this offseason, providing fans and analysts with early glimpses of their young talent, including Adem Bona. As excitement around the team’s 2025 No. 3 overall pick VJ Edgecombe waned due to a thumb injury, attention shifted to other emerging players, particularly Bona, who drew praise for his defensive skills and leadership during the games.
Fan Survey Highlights Performance of Sixers’ Young Players
In a recent 76ers-focused fan survey conducted by SB Nation Reacts, supporters were asked which player, apart from Edgecombe, impressed them the most in Summer League action. Johni Broome, the team’s No. 35 overall pick, led the voting with 51%, following his consistent scoring and notable three-point shooting across seven games in Salt Lake City and Las Vegas. Broome averaged 11.6 points per game, shooting nearly 39% from beyond the arc, alongside 7.4 rebounds and 1.3 steals.
Adem Bona captured 23% of fan votes as the second most impressive Sixers player. Returning from a rookie season significantly affected by roster injuries, Bona appeared in five Summer League games, averaging 24.1 minutes, 8.6 points on 57.6% shooting, six rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per contest. Observers highlighted his assertive defensive presence and fiery leadership that energized a team often plagued by lackluster performances.
Bona’s Impact as a Defensive Anchor and Vocal Leader
Among those watching Bona in action, his aggressive defensive contributions stood out, especially his ability to protect the rim with shot-blocking and secure offensive rebounds. Equally important was his role as a vocal leader who actively coordinated teammates, an attribute fans noted as vital given the sometimes stagnant team dynamics during games. His enthusiasm and command on the court suggested growth and readiness for a deeper role in the Sixers’ rotation.
Mixed Fan Reactions and the Nature of Summer League Play
Despite praise for Bona and Broome, the survey revealed that many fans felt the overall Summer League displayed underwhelming basketball. Some respondents expressed that no player besides Edgecombe stood out significantly, reflecting the challenging nature of the Summer League environment, where a blend of NBA-level athletes, G League players, and invitees compete. For example, Justin Edwards, who had shown promise in the previous NBA season, received only 4% of the votes due to a quiet summer performance.
The 76ers finished the Summer League with an even 4-4 record, and following Edgecombe’s injury, the latter games lacked excitement or outstanding displays. This reinforces the understanding that Summer League results do not fully capture the true potential or readiness of young players for the NBA.
Looking Ahead to the Sixers’ Upcoming Preseason
Definitive evaluations of players like Adem Bona will have to wait until the Sixers begin their preseason activities, scheduled to start in early October. This forthcoming NBA context will offer a better gauge of Bona’s development and how his leadership and defensive skills will translate against higher-level competition. Fans and analysts alike anticipate this next chapter as a clearer indicator of the team’s future prospects.