Hornets rookies have opposite performances in Summer League

Hannes Steinbach had a strong Summer League debut for the Charlotte Hornets. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Hornets' first-round picks have opposite performances in Summer League debuts

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Jul 9, 2026 10:16 PM ET

Thursday night marked the first game of the NBA Summer League for the Charlotte Hornets, meaning the debuts of their two first-round picks, Christian Anderson and Hannes Steinbach.

In the first games of their NBA careers, the results were quite the opposite for the No 14 and No. 18 picks in the 2026 NBA Draft.

Christian Anderson struggled from the field

Anderson managed just six points in 26 minutes of action and struggled shooting the ball. He knocked down just 2 of 11 shots from the field and missed all six of his three-point attempts.

He did manage to collect one rebound and two assists while posting a +/- of +6, tied for third best on the team.

Christian Anderson Jr. has had some good looks offensively that have missed.

However, his 1-on-1 defense has been impressive. Several possessions where he’s playing in the gaps and not giving up much ground with his assignment. pic.twitter.com/QP9tsA3lOi
— Richie (@richierandall) July 9, 2026

Hannes Steinbach was impressive in all phases

Steinbach on the other hand was impressive in all phases of his game on Thursday. He posted a double-double, scoring 15 points and collecting 11 rebounds.

He was efficient from the field (4-for-7) and even dished out two assists, collected one steal and two blocks. Steinbach's +/- of 13 was tied for the highest on the team with Sion James.

It was the exact first performance Charlotte wanted to see for a player that it hopes will contribute at some point during the upcoming season.

14th overall pick Hannes Steinbach with the second effort for his first NBA Summer League points

Watch Hornets/Magic on Prime! pic.twitter.com/qaQck0EhFC
— NBA (@NBA) July 10, 2026

Back-to-back Summer League champs?

While it doesn't mean much, the argument can be made that the Hornets have an extremely solid Summer League roster. It's a roster that is easily good enough to reach and possibly even win back-to-back Summer League Championships.

If they do so, the Hornets would become the first team to win back-to-back Summer League Championships since the championship game format was established in 2013.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

More must-reads: