Another Nembhard moment: Ryan steps into the spotlight at NBA Draft Combine
The younger Nembhard shows he belongs after strong showing in G League Elite Camp and Combine scrimmage. "I know I can play at this level, but it's going to come down to who believes in me..."
CHICAGO — Before the official NBA Draft Combine begins, the league hosts the G League Elite Camp for players on the fringe — those on the bubble of making it to the combine and more likely bound for the G league.
From that group, five players earned an extended stay in Chicago with the rest of the combine invitees:
Tamar Bates
Ryan Nembhard
Yanic Konan Niederhauser
Mackenzie Mgbako
Lachlan Olbrich
That list includes two former Indiana Hoosiers — Bates and Mgbako — and another Nembhard.
Three years ago, it was Andrew Nembhard impressing at Wintrust Arena. Despite an injury, he still participated in a scrimmage — which is optional — and impressed scouts, including the Indiana Pacers.
“I think it's just an opportunity to show everyone what you can do in a 5-on-5 setting,” Ryan said on Wednesday. " You can show some things that maybe you haven't shown at your college. And I think it's just a good opportunity for people to show what they can bring to a team.”
Like Andrew, Ryan attended Montverde Academy in Florida. They both started their college careers at one school, then finished at Gonzaga. Both are smart, physical, and lead by example — quiet leaders who do whatever it takes to win. However, they are willing to speak up, as needed.
Because, quite simply, they’re both competitive as hell.
Typical Driveway Battles
Growing up in Ontario, the Nembhard brothers went head-to-head daily.
“We used to play all the time on the driveway. Every day after school pretty much. We used to lower the rim, try and dunk on each other and all that. But he knows how to get on my nerves. I used to like swing mats at his head and stuff. So it got pretty serious at times, for sure.”
Their father, Claude, coached both sons while also working as a financial planner. Today, he’s the CEO of Ontario Basketball.
Those backyard battles forged both players' competitiveness and refusal to back down. They remain steady in high-pressure moments, executing what they’ve practiced.