From Undrafted to Breakout: Early Journey
Ryan Nembhard entered the NBA in 2025 not as a lottery pick, but via a two-way contract with Dallas Mavericks. Despite going undrafted in the 2025 NBA Draft, Dallas recognized his college pedigree and passing skill.
In college, after stints at Creighton Bluejays and Gonzaga Bulldogs, Nembhard delivered a stellar senior season, averaging 10.5 points and a nation-leading 9.8 assists per game, while shooting 44.6% from the field and 40.4% from three.
Notably, his 344 total assists that season set single-season records at Gonzaga and in the West Coast Conference (WCC).
Given his playmaking and shooting potential, the Mavericks signed him on July 3, 2025, as a two-way player — a deal offering a chance to prove himself at the NBA level while splitting time between the Mavericks and their G League affiliate.
December 1, 2025 — Career Night That Turned Heads
On December 1, 2025, in a road game against the Denver Nuggets, Nembhard exploded for 28 points on 12-of-14 shooting, 10 assists, and zero turnovers — his best performance so far in the NBA.
He also hit 4 of 5 three-pointers, played 35 minutes, and delivered when it mattered most, helping the Mavericks rally for a 131–121 comeback win.
That stat-line wasn’t just impressive — it was historic. He became the first undrafted rookie in NBA history to record 25+ points and 10 assists with zero turnovers in a game.
After the game he said, “I’m feeling great… I put so much work in,” showing confidence and readiness when opportunity knocks.
Given that he’s started three straight games and is seeing increased minutes, this breakout has thrust him into the conversation for a more permanent role.
Contract Status: Two-Way for Now — But Momentum Building
As of the 2025–26 season, Nembhard remains on a two-way contract.
That means he splits time between the Mavericks and their G League affiliate, the Texas Legends, giving him up to 50 NBA-level games — but no full-roster guarantee yet.
However, his latest performance strongly suggests he might earn a standard contract if he continues to deliver — especially as injuries or schedule demands arise.
Mavericks executives have previously praised his toughness, playmaking, and shooting — traits they believe could translate well long-term.
What’s Next: Can Nembhard Cement a Role?
| Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Consistency | If he keeps producing like he did against Denver — efficient scoring + clean playmaking — coaching staff may trust him more. |
| Ball-handling demand | With injuries or rest days for established guards, Nembhard could see more minutes and prove his value. |
| Two-way limitations | He needs to maximize his 50-game window before season’s end to force a full-contract decision. |
| Fit with Mavericks’ core | His playmaking and shooting take pressure off scorers, giving Dallas tactical flexibility. |
If he builds on this momentum, a standard contract could be well within reach — moving him from “rookie hopeful” to “rotation contributor.”
Bigger Picture: What This Means for Mavericks & NBA Path
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For the Mavericks, Nembhard’s emergence provides youthful depth at point guard — especially valuable in a long, injury-prone season.
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For Nembhard personally, this is potentially a turning point: from undrafted prospect to a legitimate NBA guard earning a bigger opportunity.
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For young players league-wide — this underscores that going undrafted doesn’t end the NBA dream. With work, opportunity, and steadiness, two-way deals can lead to real breakthroughs.
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