Ryan Nembhard appreciates the comparisons made about him, recognizing them as compliments intertwined with hope.
The 5-foot-11, 180-pound guard has been generating buzz among Mavericks fans during the summer league and now the preseason, reminiscent of two other unassuming Dallas guards from the past.
One of those guards, J.J. Barea, was instrumental in leading the Mavericks to their 2011 NBA championship. The other, Jalen Brunson, played a key role in Dallas reaching a conference final and has since become a two-time All-Star with the Knicks.
While being mentioned alongside such players is flattering, Nembhard remains focused on carving his own niche with the Mavericks. “I’m aiming to make my own impact on this league and this team,” he stated, acknowledging his admiration for both players but emphasizing his desire to establish his uniqueness.
At just 22 years old, Nembhard has yet to play in an official NBA game, with his debut likely happening when the Mavericks kick off their season at home against the San Antonio Spurs. The spotlight will also be on the top two picks from the 2025 NBA Draft, namely Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper.
Despite leading the nation in assists last season at Gonzaga, Nembhard went undrafted, subsequently signing a two-way contract with the Mavericks. His impressive preseason, where he averaged a team-best five assists, has led Coach Jason Kidd to consider him for the playing rotation, especially with injuries affecting teammates Dante Exum and Brandon Williams.
Nembhard’s ability to earn respect within the team is evident, as Coach Kidd praised his steady play and understanding of the game. “He’s been successful at facilitating and our pace remains consistent with him at point guard,” Kidd noted.
