Los Angeles Lakers superstar Anthony Davis is known for recognising exceptional talent, and he has turned his spotlight towards an unexpected rising star. Following a thrilling NBA encounter, Davis showered praise on Dallas Mavericks' undrafted rookie Ryan Nembhard, crediting him for a pivotal victory over the Denver Nuggets.
Nembhard's Stellar Performance Steals the Show
The Dallas Mavericks secured an impressive 131-121 win against the Denver Nuggets, a victory largely fueled by a standout performance from an unexpected source. While Anthony Davis led the scoring for his team with a dominant 32 points, 13 rebounds, and 4 assists, it was rookie Ryan Nembhard who captured the attention of fans and veterans alike.
Nembhard, who entered the league without being drafted, delivered a phenomenal all-around game. He racked up 28 points, 3 rebounds, and a crucial 10 assists, playing a key role in orchestrating the Mavericks' offense. His teammate Cooper Flagg also contributed significantly with 24 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 assists.
Davis's Viral Appreciation for the Rookie
The admiration for Nembhard's performance quickly spread online. A clip showcasing a stunning move by the rookie during the game went viral on social media. Anthony Davis, clearly impressed, reshared the clip on his own Instagram story with a succinct but powerful two-word caption: "Yessir Champ!"
This public endorsement from a player of Davis's calibre is a massive nod to Nembhard's skill and composure. The original clip was posted by the official Dallas Mavericks page, highlighting it as the "Winning Play of the Game."
Post-Game Praise and a Historic Feat
Davis's appreciation was not limited to social media. During the post-game interview, despite being the highest scorer on the court, he deflected credit to the young rookie. "Ryan Nembhard, man. He carried us," Davis stated emphatically. He elaborated, "Making big shots. Big plays. Making the right reads to the right guys... He definitely got the game ball tonight."
Nembhard's performance was not just impressive; it was historic. He became the first undrafted rookie since Stephon Marbury in 1996 to record 25+ points with 10+ assists and 0 turnovers in a single game. This remarkable statistic underscores the rarity and quality of his contribution against a top-tier team like the Nuggets.
Following this breakout game, Nembhard's season averages saw a significant boost, solidifying his position as a valuable asset for the Mavericks. The final score of 131-121 marked one of the team's most notable victories this season, with the undrafted rookie firmly at the heart of the triumph.
