Dallas Mavericks Secure Rookie Guard Ryan Nembhard with New Two-Year Contract
The Dallas Mavericks have made a significant roster move by offering rookie guard Ryan Nembhard a standard two-year contract, rewarding his impressive start to the 2025-26 NBA season. To facilitate this promotion, the team has waived veteran guard Tyus Jones, according to reports from ESPN's Shams Charania.
Nembhard's Breakout Performance Earns Standard Deal
Nembhard, who initially joined the Mavericks on a two-way contract as an undrafted free agent in July, has emerged as a surprising bright spot for the team. The 21-18 Mavericks, currently holding the 12th-best record in the Western Conference, have found a reliable contributor in the young guard. Charania reported on X that the Mavericks agreed to the two-year deal to retain Nembhard, with the contract including a team option for the 2026-27 season, providing Dallas with flexibility as they look to strengthen their backcourt.
In his 38 games this season, Nembhard has averaged:
- 6.7 points per game
- 4.9 assists per game
- 1.4 turnovers per game
- Shooting 42.9% from the field
- 37.9% from three-point range
- 76.9% from the free-throw line
Impressive Starting Role Statistics
Nembhard's performance has been particularly notable in his 17 starts, where he has elevated his game to average:
- 9.9 points per game
- 6.1 assists per game
- 44.4% three-point shooting
His standout moment came in a December 1 victory over the Denver Nuggets, where he scored a career-high 28 points. This performance highlighted his potential to contribute significantly to the Mavericks' future success.
Background and Roster Implications
Nembhard, the younger brother of Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard, led the nation in assists during his senior year at Gonzaga University. The Mavericks initially signed him to a two-way contract due to his decision-making abilities, but his development has exceeded expectations. With this new standard contract, Nembhard will no longer be limited by the game restrictions of his two-way deal, which had nearly exhausted its eligibility days.
The waiver of Tyus Jones creates the necessary roster space for Nembhard's promotion. Following this move, the Mavericks now have 15 standard contracts on their roster, with Nembhard positioned as a promising young guard who could play a key role in the team's rebuilding efforts.
This contract extension represents a strategic investment by the Dallas front office, banking on Nembhard's continued growth and his demonstrated ability to provide a spark off the bench and in starting roles. As the Mavericks navigate the competitive Western Conference, Nembhard's emergence offers hope for improved backcourt depth and future roster development.
