Historic Night for Canadian Basketball: Nembhard Brothers Face Off in the NBA
Written by: Ray Harripaul
Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, will be a first-ever night in Canadian hoops: brothers from Ontario, Andrew Nembhard and Ryan Nembhard, against each other in the NBA.
For the Ontario Basketball Association (OBA), this is more than just a game. It's about the future of the sport in our province, the devotion of families and communities, and the potential of Canadian basketball.
A Path from Aurora to the NBA
Andrew and Ryan both began in Aurora, Ontario, honing their craft on their neighborhood driveway before making it to top-level prep school Vaughan Secondary and, in the end, NCAA bluebloods.
Andrew, the older brother, cut his teeth through the University of Florida and Gonzaga before being drafted 31st overall in 2022 by the Indiana Pacers. A player defined by his calm demeanor, defensive grit, and leadership, Andrew has remained a stalwart of the Pacers' backcourt.
Ryan, a step behind him, excelled at Montverde Academy and subsequently at Creighton and Gonzaga, where he developed into one of the college game's leading playmakers. Going undrafted in 2025, Ryan signed a two-way deal with the Dallas Mavericks—and has already shown he is pro material.
Their rise from Ontario grassroots initiatives to the biggest basketball platform in the world reflects the possibilities now available to young Canadian players.
More Than Just a Game
When the Indiana Pacers play the Dallas Mavericks on October 29, the game will mark the first time in the history of the NBA regular season that two Canadian brothers will meet as opponents.
For Andrew, it's another chance to show his leadership on a playoff team.
For Ryan, it's a chance to show his heart and resourcefulness against one of the league's finest defenders—a relative.
In addition to the box score, this game is loaded with history. Families, coaches, and communities across Ontario will see a reflection of their commitment through the Nembhards' milestone.
A Milestone for Ontario Basketball
At the OBA, we are pleased to mark this as something more than a personal milestone for Andrew and Ryan—it's a country milestone.
It reflects the deepening of Canadian basketball ability.
It indicates the doors now available to Ontario players, from local clubs like IEM, YNBA and Vaughn Panthers to the NCAA and beyond.
It inspires the future generation: assurance that the aspiration of making it to the NBA is not far-fetched for players who begin right here at home."
To see Andrew and Ryan face each other on an NBA floor is both historic for Canadian basketball and deeply personal for our family. Their journey from local Ontario clubs to the world’s biggest stage reflects the love of families, the dedication of coaches, and the power of community support. This moment shows every young player in our province that their dreams are within reach. As a father, I couldn’t be prouder. As CEO of Ontario Basketball, I see it as proof of the incredible growth of our game in Canada."
Looking Ahead
Andrew and Ryan take to the court on October 29, and Ontario will be beaming with pride. Their story is one of determination, family, and community—and one that attests to the tremendous progress Canadian basketball has experienced in the last decade.
The OBA sends best wishes to the Nembhard family on this achievement and anticipates both brothers continuing to raise the bar for Canadian hoop talent.
History will be made in the NBA on Wednesday, but its origins run deep in Ontario.
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