The Pacers hold the 54th pick in the draft, and if he’s still available, Indiana may want to consider a family reunion And take a chance on Ryan Nembhard.

The Pacers hold the 54th pick in the draft, and if he’s still available, Indiana may want to consider a family reunion And take a chance on Ryan Nembhard.

 

As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, the Indiana Pacers hold the 54th overall pick — a late selection, but one that still holds potential for intrigue, upside, and maybe even a little family magic.

 

If he’s still on the board, the Pacers may want to strongly consider taking a chance on **Ryan Nembhard**, the younger brother of breakout Pacers guard **Andrew Nembhard**. And while draft night often leans toward long-term upside or international wildcards, this pick would be something different: a calculated gamble with a high basketball IQ, a known work ethic, and deep family ties to the franchise.

 

### A Familiar Name, a Unique Game

 

Ryan Nembhard, out of Gonzaga, is no stranger to pressure or high-level basketball. He’s carved out a name for himself as a savvy floor general with a calm demeanor, strong decision-making, and the ability to manage an offense with maturity beyond his years. He doesn’t force the issue, but he knows how to control pace, read defenses, and get his teammates involved.

 

While his brother Andrew has established himself as a critical two-way piece for Indiana — cool under pressure and invaluable in the playoffs — Ryan brings similar composure with a slightly more traditional point guard flair. Pairing the two could offer the Pacers something rare: **chemistry that can’t be taught.**

 

### A Backcourt Bond

 

Let’s be honest — how many teams in NBA history can say they had two brothers running the backcourt? The Pacers have seen how Andrew Nembhard stepped up in big moments this past season, including crucial minutes in the Eastern Conference Finals run. Imagine adding another Nembhard with a shared mindset, a built-in understanding, and the drive to prove himself on the same hardwood.

 

The fit isn’t just sentimental. It’s practical. Indiana could use more depth at the guard spot, especially someone who can develop behind established veterans and bring poise in short stretches. Ryan Nembhard would be walking into a locker room that already feels like home.

 

### A Smart Swing

 

The 54th pick isn’t meant for safe bets. It’s for clever ones. And few picks would be smarter — or more symbolic — than this.

 

A Nembhard reunion in Indy?

 

It just might be the family connection the Pacers need to keep building something special.