Auburn Star Miles Kelly Agrees to Two-Way NBA Contract with Dallas Mavericks as Reported by Shams Charania Today

Auburn Tigers guard Miles Kelly is officially taking the next step in his basketball journey, agreeing to a two-way NBA contract with the Dallas Mavericks, according to NBA insider Shams Charania. The report marks a significant moment for both Kelly and Auburn basketball, as yet another Tiger makes the leap to the professional level.

For Kelly, the opportunity to join an organization like the Mavericks represents both the realization of a lifelong dream and the beginning of a new challenge. While he may not have heard his name called during the 2025 NBA Draft, Kelly wasted no time finding his professional home, securing a two-way deal that keeps him firmly in the NBA ecosystem.

Two-way contracts, a staple in today’s NBA, allow players to split time between an NBA franchise and its G League affiliate. In Kelly’s case, this means he will spend time with both the Dallas Mavericks and the Texas Legends, the Mavericks’ G League squad based in Frisco, Texas. It’s an ideal arrangement for promising but still-developing talents like Kelly, offering both exposure to the NBA game and critical developmental minutes in the G League.

Kelly’s journey to this point has been defined by determination, versatility, and the ability to rise to new challenges. After beginning his college career at Georgia Tech, Kelly transferred to Auburn ahead of the 2024-25 season. The decision proved fruitful for both him and head coach Bruce Pearl’s program.

In his lone season with the Tigers, Kelly made a notable impact on both ends of the floor. His length, perimeter shooting, and defensive versatility gave Auburn a much-needed boost in the backcourt, especially after the departures of veterans like K.D. Johnson and Wendell Green Jr. Kelly’s ability to guard multiple positions and stretch the floor made him an essential contributor for Auburn throughout the SEC schedule and postseason play.

Statistically, Kelly’s year with the Tigers reflected his all-around game. He averaged 13.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, while shooting 38.5% from beyond the arc. His scoring touch, especially from long range, was critical for an Auburn team that often relied on floor spacing and perimeter threats to open up the offense.

Beyond the box score, Kelly’s maturity and leadership were also evident. As a veteran presence in a relatively young Auburn backcourt, he provided stability, often tasked with guarding opposing teams’ top perimeter players. His commitment to both ends of the floor undoubtedly caught the attention of scouts across the NBA.

The Dallas Mavericks, led by superstar Luka Dončić and All-NBA guard Kyrie Irving, are no strangers to identifying and developing under-the-radar talent. In fact, their success in recent years has often hinged on finding contributors outside of the lottery. For Kelly, the opportunity to earn minutes alongside a contending team provides both excitement and a steep challenge.

Two-way contracts come with limitations, as players can only spend up to 50 games with the NBA squad in a given season, with the remainder spent in the G League. But the structure also offers significant upside. Players like Kelly get hands-on experience with NBA coaching staffs, access to elite training facilities, and the opportunity to showcase their skills in front of decision-makers.

For Kelly, excelling with the Texas Legends could be the fastest path to sticking with the Mavericks long-term. The G League, often overlooked by casual fans, has become a proven proving ground for NBA hopefuls. Many players have parlayed strong G League performances into standard NBA contracts, rotational roles, and even playoff appearances.

Dallas’ decision to offer Kelly a two-way deal suggests they see untapped potential in the 6-foot-6 guard. His size, shooting ability, and defensive versatility align well with the modern NBA’s emphasis on switchable wings and floor spacing. Moreover, Kelly’s track record of improvement across his collegiate career bodes well for his ability to develop further at the professional level.

Coming out of Grayson High School in Georgia, Kelly was regarded as a promising recruit but not a surefire star. He steadily climbed the ranks at Georgia Tech, improving each season before making the jump to Auburn for his final collegiate year. His growth, both physically and as a player, illustrates a work ethic that NBA franchises covet in developmental prospects.

Auburn’s coaching staff, particularly Bruce Pearl, has been instrumental in preparing players for the next level. Over the past decade, Pearl has seen multiple players make the NBA leap, including stars like Jabari Smith Jr., Walker Kessler, and Sharife Cooper. Kelly joins that lineage, adding to Auburn’s growing reputation as a program that cultivates professional talent.

For Auburn fans, seeing Kelly land with a high-profile organization like the Mavericks is another point of pride. His success in Dallas would not only validate his personal development but also serve as another endorsement of Auburn’s ability to prepare athletes for basketball’s highest stage.

Looking ahead, Kelly’s versatility will likely be his ticket to carving out a role in the NBA. The Mavericks value players who can defend multiple positions, hit open shots, and complement their core of Dončić and Irving. While Kelly may face a learning curve adjusting to the speed and physicality of the NBA, his college experience and skill set provide a solid foundation.

The two-way agreement also places Kelly in an ideal developmental environment. The Mavericks have invested heavily in player development, with their G League affiliate serving as a bridge to the NBA. For Kelly, consistent minutes with the Texas Legends, combined with opportunities to practice with the Mavericks’ main roster, offer the perfect blend of growth and exposure.

Additionally, Dallas’ recent history of giving opportunities to two-way players bodes well for Kelly. Players like A.J. Lawson and McKinley Wright IV, who have cycled through the Mavericks’ system, have shown that strong G League performances can translate to NBA appearances.

Off the court, Kelly’s transition to professional basketball will come with its own set of challenges. The demands of balancing G League play, NBA responsibilities, and the constant drive to improve can be taxing, both mentally and physically. However, those close to Kelly describe him as grounded, hardworking, and prepared for the journey ahead.

As the Mavericks gear up for Summer League action, Kelly is expected to be part of the roster that competes in Las Vegas. The Summer League provides an early platform for players like Kelly to showcase their talents, compete against fellow prospects, and make a strong first impression on NBA coaches and executives.

A standout performance in Summer League could accelerate Kelly’s trajectory within the Mavericks organization. While his two-way status provides a safety net, the ultimate goal remains securing a standard NBA contract and establishing himself as a consistent contributor at the game’s highest level.

For now, the focus will be on development, opportunity, and making the most of every minute on the court. Whether with the Mavericks or the Texas Legends, Kelly has positioned himself to continue growing as a player and proving that he belongs among the basketball elite.

In the broader context, Kelly’s signing reflects the ever-evolving nature of NBA rosters, where versatile, hardworking players can earn their shot through avenues beyond the traditional draft. For undrafted players, two-way contracts represent a vital opportunity — one that Kelly appears ready to seize.

Auburn supporters, NBA scouts, and Mavericks fans alike will be watching closely as Kelly embarks on this new chapter. His journey serves as a reminder that the road to the NBA isn’t always linear, but for those with talent, determination, and the right opportunity, the dream remains within reach.

Miles Kelly’s next steps will unfold under the bright lights of the NBA and G League arenas. If his collegiate career and relentless work ethic are any indication, Kelly is prepared to make the most of his Dallas opportunity — and perhaps, become the Mavericks’ next hidden gem.