Dallas Mavericks Rookie Watch - Ryan Nembhard

Everyone knows about Cooper Flagg, the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and likely the Rookie of the Year, but many may be sleeping on another member of the Dallas Mavericks' rookie class. 

The Mavericks might have uncovered a diamond in the rough when they signed undrafted rookie point guard Ryan Nemhard to a two-way contract this summer. Despite leading the nation in assists with 9.8 per game and a second-round NCAA Tournament appearance, teams decided to pass on the Canadian point guard during the 2025 NBA Draft. 

What makes Nembhard intriguing isn’t just his college resume; he became the Gonzaga Bulldogs’ single-season assists leader with 344 during his senior year, or his success on the international stage, but more so his high basketball IQ. While playing for the Mavericks Summer League squad, the coaches noted his ability to orchestrate the offense while also dialing into what the team needed from him at the moment. Averaging 11.3 points and 6.7 assists over three games, Nembhard highlighted his summer by dropping 21 points, 5 assists, and 2 rebounds against the LA Lakers. 

In addition to his ability to distribute the ball, Nembhard has also shown his ability to knock down the long ball, hitting 40% of his three-pointers last season. 

The timing of adding Nembhard to the roster couldn’t be better for the young point guard. With Kyrie Irving recovering from a torn ACL suffered last March and not expected back until possibly after the All-Star break, the Mavs recently signed D’Angelo Russell and brought back veteran Dante Exum to man the point position. This creates a great opportunity for Nembhard to potentially grab some meaningful NBA experience early in the season. 

While there would be a logjam at the point when and if Irving makes a healthy return this season, Nembhard becomes a valuable asset for a team that needs reliable ball handling off the bench. Although he is likely to spend most of the season with the Texas Legends, Nembhard could provide the Mavericks with a solid insurance policy with the second unit. With Irving’s health uncertain and Russell on a two-year deal (with a player option for the second season), don’t be surprised to see the Mavs offer Nembhard a guaranteed contract before the season is over.