Mavericks Sign Brother of Pacers’ Unsung Hero in 2025 NBA Playoffs originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Dallas Mavericks fans are buzzing with excitement this morning after the team signed Ryan Nembhard, a standout point guard from the Gonzaga Bulldogs and younger brother of Indiana Pacers’ playoff standout Andrew Nembhard, to a two-way contract.
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Announced by Jonathan Givony of ESPN, the move comes hot on the heels of the 2025 NBA Draft, where Ryan went undrafted despite leading college basketball with 9.7 assists per game.
The accompanying image of Ryan in a Gonzaga jersey, fists clenched in triumph, symbolizes the passion he brings to the court.
Ryan’s signing adds a familial twist to the NBA landscape, with his brother Andrew emerging as an unsung hero during the Pacers’ 2025 playoff run, notably stepping up in the Finals against the Thunder.
Ryan’s college stats—10.5 points, 9.8 assists, and a 40.4% three-point shooting rate—mirror Andrew’s playmaking prowess, offering the Mavericks a potential floor general to support Kyrie Irving.
Mar 20, 2025; Wichita, KS, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Ryan Nembhard (0) dribbles against Georgia Bulldogs guard Silas Demary Jr. (5) in the first half of a first round men’s NCAA Tournament game at Intrust Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nick Tre. Smith-Imagn Images Nick Tre. Smith-Imagn Images
As someone who played under one of the best coaches in college basketball history in Mark Few while also playing alongside current NBA players like Chet Holmgren, Ryan is certainly ready to showcase his skills on the professional stage.
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Social media reactions are electric, with many lamenting a missed Pacers opportunity and some deeming Ryan as the perfect fit for the Mavericks’ needs.
As the Mavericks navigate Irving’s injury concerns, Ryan’s arrival could spark a sibling rivalry narrative for the upcoming season.
Fans eagerly await his Summer League debut, where his robust skillset and unwavering determination might just carve out a lasting NBA role alongside his brother’s rising star.
Related: Florida Receives Major Recruiting News on Thursday
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 27, 2025, where it first appeared.