Here’s an in-depth look at the Mavericks’ bold move to sign Auburn sharpshooter Miles Kelly—and why he could become the NBA’s next undrafted success story…..
Last night, the Dallas Mavericks wasted no time after the NBA Draft wrapped up, signing Miles Kelly to a two-way contract—an opportunity to split time between the NBA and the G League’s Texas Legends . At 6′6″ and 190 lb, Kelly brings size at the shooting guard spot, making him a standout in a Mavericks backcourt that suddenly needs reinforcements after Kyrie Irving’s ACL injury .
📈 College Resume: From Georgia Tech to Auburn
Kelly’s path to the pros spans six years of college basketball:
Georgia Tech (2021–2024): After averaging 14.4 ppg in 2022–23 and earning All‑ACC honorable mention the following season, he logged a career-high 36 points against Louisville in February 2024 .
Auburn (2024–25): Transferring for his final year, Kelly averaged 11.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.0 steals across 38 games. He combined a 40.6% field-goal percentage, 37.8% from deep, and an elite 90.9% free-throw accuracy .
He also left his mark with a 30-point, nine-three performance in Rupp Arena and a clutch game-winner against Tennessee —evidence of his ability to perform under pressure.
🏀 What He Brings to Dallas
Elite Shooting
Dallas adds a proven lob-range threat. Kelly hit nearly 38% from three last season and converted over 90% of his free throws—a combination scouts love .
Size and Versatility
At 6′6″, Kelly can defend multiple positions. His ability to rebound (3.7 rpg) and create off the bounce gives head coach Jason Kidd another weapon in backcourt rotations .
Toughness and Clutch Gene
Kelly isn’t afraid of big moments. His college résumé is stacked with late-game heroics—critical for a team retooling post-Irving .
🧩 Mavericks’ Strategy: Mining Undrafted Talent
Dallas has embraced a tried-and-true model: pick high in the draft and mine the post-draft market deep. They also signed Gonzaga floor general Ryan Nembhard to a two-way deal, filling the need for playmakers and shooters as Kyrie recovers .
The team still has one additional two-way slot to fill, giving them flexibility to add more upside .
🔍 Why Kelly Could Be the Next Undrafted Standout
Undrafted gems aren’t rare in the NBA—recall Austin Reaves’ rise with the Lakers. Kelly’s profile checks many boxes:
Pure shooter – Something every NBA team covets.
Size on the perimeter – Ideal for modern wing roles.
High basketball IQ – Experienced guard with decision-making chops.
Clutch performer – Hesitates under pressure? Not this guy.
With a strong Summer League showing—where he’ll team up with rookies like Cooper Flagg—Kelly has a genuine shot at earning a regular-season rotation spot .
⏭️ Looking Ahead
Training camp & preseason: High-stakes environment for Kelly to prove himself.
Summer League: Critical showcase in Las Vegas, pitting him against other hopefuls.
G League seasoning: Opportunity to hone skills and consistency with the Texas Legends.
If he excels in these arenas, Kelly could easily follow the path of fellow undrafted successes and secure a full NBA roster spot.
🏁 Final Takeaway
Miles Kelly might not have heard his name called on draft night, but the Mavericks clearly believe they’ve unearthed a valuable asset. His mix of shooting, size, and clutch performance matches Dallas’s blueprint for a modern wing: high IQ, high upside, low risk.
If Kelly capitalizes on Summer League and translates his college game to the pros, he might just carve out a role—and maybe even become the NBA’s next undrafted success story.
Stay tuned: this underdog’s journey is one to watch.
Let me know if you’d like a breakdown of his stats, scouting report, or comparisons to previous two-way success cases.