G League Elite Camp: 34 NBA, Five 2026 Combine Invites

Before the combine, the G League held its Elite Camp for athletes not widely regarded as top NBA prospects. The camp features scrimmages, skill drills, and interviews with NBA staff. Top performers receive an automatic invitation to the combine.

At the most recent camp, held in early May 2024, five college players distinguished themselves. Aaron Nkrumah (Tennessee State), Rafael Castro (George Washington), Jacob Cofie (USC), Bryce Hopkins (St. John’s), and Trey Kaufman-Renn (Purdue) each earned a 2026 NBA Draft Combine invite after strong showings in shooting, defense, and athleticism tests.

The camp’s output has grown steadily. In 2019 and 2020 combined, eight participants reached the NBA. By 2023, that yearly total rose to twelve, showing the program’s increasing relevance.

Front offices also use Elite Camp data to identify players for summer league and training camp invites. A solid camp showing can reduce the risk associated with signing an unknown prospect.

For the five 2026 invitees, the combine will provide the next data point. Their measurements, drill results, and interview scores will be weighed against their camp performance. Strong combine numbers could lead to guaranteed contracts, while weaker results might push them toward two‑way or Exhibit 10 deals.

Watch how these players navigate the combine’s medical exams and media availability; those factors often influence final draft decisions.