The Dallas Mavericks are gearing up for the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas with a roster featuring a blend of young talent and international prospects. The team’s summer league coach, Joe Boylan, highlighted several players who could make an impact during the upcoming event.
One of the most anticipated debuts is that of De Larrea, selected 25th overall in the recent draft. Boylan praised De Larrea’s well-rounded offensive skills, describing him as a high basketball IQ player with strong passing, shooting, and defensive capabilities. The coach noted De Larrea’s energy and maturity, saying the rookie has already demonstrated strong chemistry with teammates, including several alley-oop connections in practice.
In addition to De Larrea, the Mavericks will showcase Vsevolod Ishchenko, a 6-foot-8 guard from Russia acquired from the Los Angeles Lakers via draft rights to the 56th overall pick. Ishchenko’s shooting ability stands out, as he converted 46.3% of his three-point attempts over 43 games last season with Russia’s Lokomotiv Kuban. Boylan emphasized the benefit of having players with diverse international styles, noting that European players often bring an emphasis on unselfishness and defensive focus that aligns with the Mavericks' approach.
The roster also includes Nigerian center Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu and Spanish twins Guillermo and Jorge Diaz Graham, reinforcing the team’s international presence.
Ryan Nembhard, who recently represented Canada in FIBA Americas World Cup qualifiers, is expected to join the Mavericks for their scheduled game against the Golden State Warriors on Thursday. Nembhard, an undrafted sophomore last season, earned a standard contract after starting on a two-way deal. Having his team option exercised through the 2026-27 season, Nembhard is projected to compete for backup point guard minutes behind star Kyrie Irving. Coaches will be watching for his playmaking skills and potential improvements on defense and shooting efficiency.
The Mavericks’ three players on two-way contracts—John Poulakidas, Tyler Smith, and rookie Tobi Larkin—will also feature prominently in summer league action. Poulakidas, a sharpshooter listed at 6-foot-6 and 208 pounds, has spent the offseason focusing on strength development to enhance his overall game. Smith, a 6-foot-10 forward with previous NBA experience, appeared in 12 games last season, averaging 4.7 points and 2.8 rebounds. Boylan cited Smith among the group contributing to the team’s defensive potential. Larkin, a Virginia Tech forward signed to a two-way contract last week, brings notable athleticism that could translate to highlight plays such as alley-oops and blocked shots.
Center Moussa Cisse, a restricted free agent who spent last season on a two-way contract, was also present at the American Airlines Center on Tuesday. His attendance may indicate ongoing discussions regarding his status with the team.
Among the veterans on the summer league roster, Jaden Springer carries the most NBA experience. The 28th overall pick in 2021 has spent time with multiple franchises including the Philadelphia 76ers, Boston Celtics, and Utah Jazz, although he did not appear in NBA games last season. His participation in the summer league offers an opportunity to demonstrate his readiness to continue at the professional level.
Local interest will be represented by La’Vie’ Francis, a center who played collegiately at Houston from 2021 to 2025 and spent last season with the Santa Cruz Warriors of the NBA G League.
The Mavericks’ summer league lineup in Las Vegas offers a platform to evaluate young prospects and two-way contract players as the team prepares for the upcoming NBA season.