Ryan Nembhard sparks wild NBA Draft rumors after viral Indiana Pacers reunion speculation | NBA News
All eyes are on the NBA Draft this week, and one familiar name is such that includes some buzz: Ryan Nembhard. The Gonzaga guard, listed at 5-foot-11, is projected to be selected in the second round. His brother, Andrew Nembhard, is currently on the Indiana Pacers. Ryan’s passing and assist totals have made his way onto several mock draft boards, and the family reunion speculation in the Indiana Pacers has begun.
Ryan Nembhard draws interest ahead of NBA Draft
On June 25, NBA draft coverage highlighted Ryan Nembhard as a top second-round prospect. He ranked between picks 51 and 58 in mock drafts, depending on the outlet. According to USA Today’s For The Win, Ryan Nembhard is projected to be picked by the Indiana Pacers in the second round, reuniting him with his brother, Andrew Nembhard. Sports Illustrated has him going to the Los Angeles Clippers at No. 51. Meanwhile, ESPN projects him to the Cleveland Cavaliers at No. 58.These projections show NBA teams value Ryan Nembhard’s leadership and playmaking.
Gonzaga’s point guard boasts eye-popping assists and sharp comparisons
Ryan Nembhard lit up Gonzaga University during the 2024–25 season, averaging 9.8 assists per game. That number led the nation and broke school and conference records. His skill set is often compared to NBA guards TJ McConnell and Tyus Jones – slim, smart, and effective despite their size.Teammates and co-workers praise his court IQ. As one analyst put it: “He’s a dream point guard for teammates”. At 22 years old and standing 5’11”, he brings high energy and low turnovers. This makes him a strong candidate for a two-way contract or second-round pick.His brother Andrew Nembhard, now with the Indiana Pacers, has been a key contributor since being drafted in 2022. If Ryan Nembhard lands in Indiana Pacers at No. 54, the family would be reunited, on court and at home. Fans and analysts are buzzing: How appropriate would it be for NBA veteran TJ McConnell to mentor a player with a similar style?Ryan Nembhard’s journey from Gonzaga to a possible NBA draft pick is one to watch. With big-game vision, leadership, and a brother already in the league, he could be one of this year’s most inspiring second-round success stories.Also Read: NBA prospect Dylan Harper comes from a championship family—but his 13-year-old sister might be the real sister in the making
