Former Gator Xaivian Lee Chases NBA Dream in Summer League

Former Florida Gators guard Xaivian Lee is currently competing for a roster spot with the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2026 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. After going undrafted in the 2026 NBA Draft, Lee signed an Exhibit 10 contract, averaging 5.5 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists through his first four games as he looks to transition from the collegiate level to professional basketball.

Evaluating Xaivian Lee’s Summer League Performance

Lee’s transition to the NBA stage has been marked by fluctuating efficiency. According to league statistics, he has played an average of 16.1 minutes per game. His debut against the Indiana Pacers proved difficult, as he recorded two points on 1-for-6 shooting while committing four fouls in a 99-93 loss.

Consistency remains the primary challenge for the 6-foot-4 guard. In a subsequent 103-94 loss to the Detroit Pistons, Lee shot 2-for-3 from the field, including his only 3-pointer of the summer. His most productive outing occurred in a 90-73 victory over the Miami Heat, where he logged 8 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists in 14 minutes. However, his volume increased in a recent win over the Pelicans, where he struggled to 2-for-10 shooting, finishing with 7 points.

Did you know? An Exhibit 10 contract is a one-year, minimum-salary, non-guaranteed deal.

From Gainesville to the Professional Ranks

Lee’s path to the NBA followed a single season at the University of Florida, where he averaged 11.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.2 assists. His tenure in Gainesville followed a three-year stint at Princeton. He arrived at Florida as a four-star transfer with the expectation of replacing production left by Walter Clayton Jr. and contributing to a championship-caliber roster.

Xaivian Lee with the clutch And-1 shot against the Pelicans in Summer League

His collegiate career concluded on a difficult note during the NCAA tournament. In a Round of 32 matchup against Iowa, Lee was involved in the final sequence that ended the Gators’ tournament bid. In the closing seconds, he navigated the length of the floor but was unable to release a shot before the buzzer, resulting in a 73-72 loss.

The Path Forward for Undrafted Prospects

The NBA Summer League serves as a critical proving ground for players on Exhibit 10 deals. With the Cavaliers set to face the Chicago Bulls in their finale, Lee is expected to receive extended playing time, especially with rookie Meleek Thomas projected to rest.

The Path Forward for Undrafted Prospects

If Lee fails to secure a spot on the Cavaliers’ final roster, the G League remains the most likely destination for his professional development. This pathway is common for undrafted guards who require additional time to refine their shooting consistency and adjust to the speed of the professional game before attempting to earn a standard NBA contract.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is an Exhibit 10 contract? It is a one-year, minimum-salary, non-guaranteed deal.
  • Where did Xaivian Lee play before Florida? Lee played three seasons at Princeton before transferring to Florida.
  • What are Lee’s current Summer League stats? Through four games, Lee has averaged 5.5 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 16.1 minutes per game.

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