The Dallas Mavericks have officially signed Ryan Nembhard to a new two-year NBA contract, solidifying the young Canadian guard’s place on the team. The 22-year-old from Aurora, Ontario, who had been on a two-way contract this season, earned the extended deal following impressive performances throughout his rookie year.
This agreement highlights the Mavericks’ confidence in Nembhard’s abilities as they adjust their guard lineup during Kyrie Irving’s ongoing injury recovery.
From Undrafted Rookie to Key Contributor
After going undrafted in June 2025, Nembhard joined Dallas and quickly demonstrated the skills that made him a standout floor general during his collegiate career. Over 38 NBA appearances, he has averaged 6.7 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game, shooting 37.9 percent from three-point range.
Notably, his assist rate per 100 possessions ranks fifth among NBA players with at least 30 games, trailing only players such as Jamal Shead of the Toronto Raptors. Nembhard also stepped in as a starter 17 times, producing 9.9 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 6.1 assists, with an improved three-point shooting percentage of 44.4.
Impressive Background and Strong Support System
Nembhard’s basketball journey includes accolades from top college programs, starting with earning the Big East Freshman of the Year award at Creighton in 2021. He later transferred to Gonzaga, where he was named to the All-West Coast Conference First Team twice and led the NCAA in assists during his senior year. His international experience includes winning a bronze medal with Canada at the FIBA U-19 World Cup.
Ryan’s older brother, Andrew Nembhard, is also a prominent figure in professional basketball as a starting guard for the Indiana Pacers and a member of Canada’s senior national team, highlighting a family legacy in the sport.
Mavericks Adjust Roster to Secure Nembhard
To accommodate Nembhard’s new contract, the Mavericks waived Tyus Jones shortly before the announcement, indicating a strategic shift in their guard rotation. With rookie Cooper Flagg also in development, Nembhard’s role in Dallas’s backcourt appears solidified as the team continues to navigate Irving’s absence.
Significance of the New Deal and Future Prospects
This two-year deal represents a critical step for Ryan Nembhard, offering him the opportunity to further establish himself within the NBA. His growing impact on the court, combined with his proven playmaking and versatility, positions him as a valuable asset for the Mavericks’ future plans.
As the team rebuilds its guard core, Nembhard’s development will be closely watched, signaling hopeful prospects for both the player and Dallas’s season ahead.
The Dallas Mavericks are signing two-way guard Ryan Nembhard to a new two-year contract, Todd Ramasar and Jaafar Choufani of Life Sports Agency tell ESPN. Nembhard brought a spark on his two-way deal, averaging 9.9 points, 6.1 assists and 44.4% 3-point shooting in 17 starts. pic.twitter.com/GFPhSy8rkb
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 28, 2026
The Mavericks waived veteran guard Tyus Jones to create roster space for Nembhard. Dallas will have financial flexibility and a lottery pick this summer — allowing his deal to provide optionality in Nembhard's long-term future with the Mavericks. https://t.co/TjUGIMfpAS
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 28, 2026
