Ryan Nembhard isn’t focused on headlines. He’s focused on opportunity. After leading the nation in assists at Gonzaga with 9.8 per game and averaging 10.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.7 steals while shooting over 40% from deep, the 6-foot point guard is bringing his pass-first mentality and defensive edge to the Dallas Mavericks. The franchise signed him to a two-way contract after the 2024 NBA Draft, and he’s already embracing his first challenge—Summer League.

“I’m just excited for the opportunity,” Nembhard said after his first Summer League practice. “Being around guys who want to get better and want to win—it’s a great environment.”

It’s no surprise Nembhard was one of the nation’s top playmakers last season. He captained Gonzaga’s offense and led the Bulldogs to another strong campaign in the West Coast Conference. Now, he’s hoping to make a similar impact in Dallas—even if it takes time.

“I just want to make the most of this opportunity,” he said. “Once we’re out there, the height talk goes away. We all just hoop.”

“I Try to Be a Hard-Nosed Guy”: Competitive Roots and Point Guard Mentality

Nembhard’s basketball foundation started early, in backyard duels with his older brother, Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard.

“They were fun—super competitive,” Nembhard said. “We just enjoyed playing hoops and being competitive as kids. I learned a lot and had a lot of fun.”

That competition helped shape him, as did his parents, who instilled a toughness and work ethic that still shows in his play.

“It’s something I’ve always had in me, and I think it’s going to help me going forward,” he said. “I try to be a hard-nosed guy who finds ways to win. Whether picking up full court or making things tough on bigger players, I’m willing to do whatever it takes.”

That mentality impressed Mavericks Summer League coach Josh Broghamer, who said Nembhard “made all the right reads” while running five-on-fives against veterans in camp. It’s not just passing that stands out. Nembhard believes his scoring has been overlooked.

“Absolutely. I definitely have the ability to score,” he said. “In college, it’s about doing whatever it takes to win, so sometimes you don’t focus on scoring as much. But I know I can create my own shot and put the ball in the basket when needed.”

That includes outside shooting—he hit 40.4% of his threes last season—and continues to work on polishing his jumper, floaters, and touch around the rim.

“My shooting—both catch-and-shoot and off the dribble. Also working on mid-range, floaters, and finishing around the bigs,” he said. “It’s about building a well-rounded game.”

He credits mechanical tweaks and improved shot selection for his efficiency.

“I focused on taking better shots—ones I wanted, not ones I was forced into,” Nembhard explained. “My understanding of the game improved, and I expect that to keep growing with more reps.”

“We’ll Figure Each Other Out Quickly”: Early Chemistry with Cooper Flagg

Nembhard is already getting reps with No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg and believes their games are built to complement each other.

“When you’ve got two guys with high IQ and a good feel for the game, it’s a smooth fit,” Nembhard said. “We’ll figure each other out quickly and play off each other well.”

He praised Flagg’s athleticism, energy, and overall feel for the game.

“He’s a good dude. Super athletic, high energy, and seems to understand the game really well. I think it’ll be fun to play with him.”

The transition to NBA systems and spacing is always an adjustment, but Nembhard sees every Summer League practice as a valuable tool.

“These practices help us learn how guys like to play—where they want the ball, how they like it passed,” he said. “It’s a quick turnaround, but we’ll all get better as we go.”

He’s already picking up feedback from vets like Jaden Hardy, P.J. Washington, Naji Marshall, and fellow Canadian Dwight Powell.

“I know Dwight Powell a little from the Canadian connection,” Nembhard said. “It was fun to get on the court with them… building relationships helps on the court, too.”

“We All Just Hoop”: Confidence, NBA Goals, and a Family Legacy

Nembhard isn’t worried about narratives. He’s been doubted before, most recently about his size during the pre-draft process.

“It is what it is—I am who I am. I’m probably done growing,” he said with a smile.

Instead, his focus is on growth. He wants to continue developing a feel for the NBA game and learning how to maximize his role in a winning situation.

“As I adjust and pick things up, I’ll develop an even better feel at this level,” he said.

He also plans to lean on players like Brandon Williams, who turned a two-way contract into a standard deal with Dallas last season.

“I’ll definitely pick his brain as the year goes on and learn from him and all the other guys,” Nembhard said.

Regarding NBA models, he rattles off names like Fred VanVleet, Kyle Lowry, Chris Paul, and Jose Alvarado. He also credits his mom—“She can hoop for real, too!”—and big brother Andrew.

“I’ve learned a lot from him my whole life,” he said. “It’s a blessing to have someone like that to look up to.”

For now, the Mavericks are giving Nembhard a runway. With three future Hall of Famers, a stacked roster, and a rising star in Flagg, he’s hoping to fit right into the mix.

“I’m just excited to be in this environment and have the opportunity to contribute,” he said. “This city’s going to be buzzing.”

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