Jan 12, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; The Denver Nuggets team bench celebrates during the second half of the game against the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Denver Nuggets May Have Found a Hidden NBA Gem

Originally posted on Denver Nuggets on SI
By Logan Struck | Last updated Jul 19, 2025 1:38 PM ET

The Denver Nuggets wrapped up their 2025 NBA Summer League action on Friday with a dominant win over the Los Angeles Lakers, winning 106-84. The Nuggets finished their time in Las Vegas with a 2-3 record, but effectively used the time to develop their young guys, and even found an unexpected standout.

In Friday's win, the Nuggets were led by 24-year-old guard Curtis Jones, an undrafted rookie. Jones dropped 22 points, five rebounds, eight assists, and two steals on 9-16 shooting from the field and 4-9 from three-point range.

Ending the Vegas debut with a standout performance pic.twitter.com/UALnUcnvGU
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) July 19, 2025

Jones, a 6-foot-4 guard, flew under the radar during the NBA Draft process, but got picked up by the Nuggets' Summer League squad and ended up leading the team in scoring. Through five appearances, Jones averaged 14.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game while impressively shooting 54.9% from the field and 46.7% from beyond the arc.

Curtis Jones 2025 NBA Summer League Stats

— 5 GP (1 start)
— 20 MPG
— 14.6 PPG (lead team)
— 4.4 RPG
— 3.8 APG
— 46.7% 3PT (14/30)
— 54.9% FG (28/51)

If there’s a way to make a name for yourself as a rookie — this is a great way to do it.

(: Getty Images) pic.twitter.com/OVbc1C0oiR
— Cardinal & Gold Report (@hoopsreport_ia) July 19, 2025

The Nuggets seemed to have found a hidden gem in the former Iowa State star, but it now comes down to whether or not they offer him a contract to stay in Denver. After Friday's 22-point outing, Jones talked about how important his three-point shooting ability will be as he looks for an NBA opportunity.

"Very important. Every team needs shooters. That's a big part of basketball. I think that's a big trait that I bring to any team," Jones said.

“Every team needs shooters… I think that’s a big trait that I bring”

Curtis Jones on what was working for him tonight ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/kppVDSej3k
— AltitudeTV (@AltitudeTV) July 19, 2025

Nuggets fans have been calling for the franchise to at least give him a two-way contract to keep with the franchise, but if they do not offer, he should not have much trouble finding an opportunity elsewhere after showing out in Las Vegas.

This article first appeared on Denver Nuggets on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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