LAS VEGAS — Nate Ament’s first NBA Summer League appearances have reinforced the same scouting report that made him a lottery pick: the upside is evident, but so is the development still ahead.
The former Tennessee standout has totaled 13 points and eight rebounds through his first two games with Milwaukee. The Bucks selected Ament No. 13 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. While the numbers have been modest, Milwaukee is evaluating more than the box score.
“I think what you hope going forward is by the end of the Las Vegas run, you get to see the flashes,” Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski said during an appearance on The Sports Paige. “The athleticism, a nice-looking 3-point shot. Rather than the hard stats, are you seeing the high-ceiling type stuff and flashes that the Bucks drafted at 13?”
Because the trade that brought Ament to Milwaukee was not finalized until July 6, he entered Summer League behind several teammates who had already participated in the California Classic and spent additional time together in team activities.
Despite the late start, one of the biggest early takeaways has been Ament’s confidence.
Even when shots failed to fall, the 19-year-old continued looking for opportunities offensively, remained engaged within the flow of the offense and never appeared hesitant.
“You don’t want to see passivity or some unsureness,” Owczarski said. “Definitely not lacking in confidence.”
Owczarski also pointed to Ament’s willingness to embrace a role rather than force offense as another encouraging sign. Instead of trying to justify his lottery selection every possession, Ament has focused on fitting within Milwaukee’s system . Which is comprised of a roster filled with young players learning a new coaching staff.
As Summer League continues, the next step will be turning those flashes into consistent production.
“I think if I was a Bucks fan, I’d want to see him play a little more,” Owczarski said. “You want to see some productivity. You want to see one of those games where those shots go in.”
For now, Milwaukee appears focused less on immediate statistics and more on whether Ament’s tools continue translating against NBA competition.
Through two games, the confidence, athleticism and willingness to learn have provided an encouraging starting point.
