The Milwaukee Bucks have secured Cormac Ryan on a two-way contract from their G League team, the Wisconsin Herd. This agreement allows Ryan to divide his playing time between the Bucks and the Herd, giving the organization flexibility while giving Ryan a chance to prove himself at the NBA level. As Ryan is expected to spend more time with Milwaukee, teammates in Oshkosh such as Johnny Davis and Mark Sears will likely have to assume bigger roles within the Herd.
Johnny Davis and Mark Sears Poised for NBA Progression
Johnny Davis, a former Wisconsin Badger and 10th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, drew attention when the Herd acquired him last offseason despite underwhelming performance in the NBA so far. His presence in the Wisconsin Herd was seen as a low-risk opportunity to develop a talented guard further. Meanwhile, Mark Sears, an undrafted player signed after a strong collegiate career at Alabama, has showcased scoring and playmaking skills that could help him bypass common hurdles faced by smaller guards aiming for the NBA. With the Bucks needing additional point guard depth, both players are in promising positions.
Davis has contributed solidly to the Herd, averaging 14.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and one steal per game across 10 Tip-Off Tournament contests, though he has yet to dominate. Sears has stood out more clearly as a productive scorer and facilitator, posting 17.3 points and 5.7 assists on average, signaling untapped potential ready to be refined. However, both currently rank below Ryan in the Herd’s hierarchy.
Opening for More Playing Time Following Ryan’s Promotion
With Ryan expected to take on more responsibilities with the Bucks, this will create a playing time vacuum in the Herd. Ryan was averaging over 15 shot attempts per game, and those offensive opportunities will now likely shift to Davis and Sears, providing them a chance to showcase their skills on a larger scale. This opportunity comes at a critical time as both guards aim to earn NBA minutes, motivated by Ryan’s recent ascent from the Herd to the Bucks’ roster.
The Bucks organization has demonstrated a willingness to elevate players from their farm system. Previous two-way players such as Ryan Rollins and AJ Green spent time with the Wisconsin Herd before securing standard NBA contracts with Milwaukee. Ryan now follows in their footsteps, setting an example for Davis and Sears, who could be next to receive a similar call-up by proving themselves ready at the G League level.
Impact of Ryan’s Signing on the Herd’s Team Dynamics
Ryan’s move to Milwaukee creates a ripple effect within the Herd, potentially enabling other G League players to capitalize on enhanced roles and increased minutes. This change broadens opportunities for emerging talents and signals a shift in the team’s competitive landscape. The upcoming weeks will be critical for players like Davis, Sears, and perhaps other Herd members who can seize the moment and push for their own advancement to the NBA level.
What to Watch Next for the Bucks and Their Prospects
As Cormac Ryan embarks on his path splitting time between the Bucks and Herd, the organization’s development pipeline is under the spotlight. The Bucks maintain a clear strategy of grooming homegrown talent, with the Herd serving as an essential stepping stone. Fans and analysts alike will closely monitor how Johnny Davis, Mark Sears, and others rise to the occasion now that additional opportunities have emerged. These developments may have meaningful consequences for Milwaukee’s depth and future competitiveness in the NBA.
