From college phenom to NBA All-Star and now a key addition to the Dallas Mavericks roster, D’Angelo Russell, affectionately known as “DLo,” has carved out a fascinating career path in the National Basketball Association. Known for his crafty playmaking, clutch shooting, and impressive court vision, Russell continues to be a dynamic force in professional basketball. This deep dive explores DLo’s remarkable journey, his standout moments, and his current role in the 2025-26 NBA season with the Mavericks. Get ready for a comprehensive player profile that covers everything from his Ohio State Buckeyes days to his latest NBA updates and Dallas Mavericks news.
Collegiate Stardom: DLo’s Rise with the Ohio State Buckeyes
Before making waves in the NBA, D’Angelo Russell showcased his elite talent during a spectacular single season with the Ohio State Buckeyes in 2014-2015. As a freshman, DLo was an undeniable sensation, starting all 35 games and leading the team with an impressive 19.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. His scoring prowess made him the country’s leading freshman scorer and earned him the second-highest freshman scoring average in Ohio State’s history.
Russell’s collegiate career was marked by several highlight-reel performances, including the first triple-double by an Ohio State freshman (23 points, 11 rebounds, 11 assists) against Rutgers in February 2015. He also set a career-high with 33 points against Northwestern and grabbed 14 rebounds against Maryland. His exceptional performance garnered numerous accolades, including being named a consensus first-team All-American, receiving the prestigious Jerry West Award, and earning both Big Ten Freshman of the Year and first-team All-Big Ten honors. Following this remarkable year, Russell declared for the 2015 NBA Draft, instantly becoming a top prospect.
The Early NBA Chapters: Lakers and Nets Era
D’Angelo Russell’s professional journey began when he was selected as the second overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. His two-season stint with the Lakers saw flashes of brilliance, averaging 14.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4 assists. He debuted in October 2015, made history as the youngest Laker to hit 130 three-pointers in a season, and earned a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2016. However, his rookie years were overshadowed by Kobe Bryant’s farewell tour and challenges with coaching staff, along with a controversial incident that created early trust issues.
In June 2017, DLo was traded to the Brooklyn Nets, a move that proved pivotal for his NBA career. Over two seasons with the Nets, Russell blossomed into a true NBA All-Star. Averaging 17.9 points, 6.2 assists, and 3.7 rebounds, he demonstrated incredible scoring and playmaking abilities. Key DLo highlights include a career-high 44 points against the Sacramento Kings, where he orchestrated a franchise-record 28-point comeback. In February 2019, he received his first NBA All-Star selection, leading the Nets to the playoffs and solidifying his status as one of the league’s emerging stars. His time in Brooklyn showed the league exactly what a healthy and confident D’Angelo Russell could achieve.
Shifting Squads: Warriors, Timberwolves, and a Return to Lakers
Following his All-Star campaign, Russell’s career took him through a few more destinations. He joined the Golden State Warriors in July 2019 via a sign-and-trade, albeit for a brief stint. In 33 games, he posted a career-high 23.6 points, 6.2 assists, and 3.7 rebounds, including an incredible 52-point game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. DLo enjoyed the Warriors’ culture, appreciating the “special basketball minds that drive that ship.”
His journey then led him to the Minnesota Timberwolves in February 2020, where he reunited with close friend Karl-Anthony Towns. Over three seasons, Russell averaged 18.5 points, 6.5 assists, and 3.2 rebounds, delivering strong performances like a 37-point, 9-assist game against the Memphis Grizzlies. Despite contributing significantly and helping the Timberwolves make the Play-In tournament, Russell later expressed feeling “held back” in Minnesota, often having to be the team’s third option. He was traded back to the Los Angeles Lakers in February 2023, where he continued to demonstrate his scoring and playmaking abilities, contributing to notable wins and their inaugural NBA in-Season Tournament victory in December 2023. This period showcased DLo’s resilience and adaptability to various team roles and systems.
Dallas Mavericks: A New Chapter for DLo in 2025
The latest exciting chapter in D’Angelo Russell’s career sees him joining the Dallas Mavericks, signing a two-year, $13 million deal on July 6, 2025, as a free agent. This strategic move marks his seventh NBA team, positioning him as a crucial piece for backcourt depth alongside superstar talents Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. Wearing jersey number 5, DLo is expected to provide valuable contributions off the bench for a contending team, leveraging his versatility as both a point guard and shooting guard.
As of early December in the current 2025-26 NBA season, D’Angelo Russell’s Dallas Mavericks stats reflect his role within the team. He is averaging 11.7 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game in 20.9 minutes. His shooting percentages stand at 39.2% from the field, 25.6% from three-point range, and 69.6% from the free-throw line. While still early in the season, DLo’s presence is vital for the Mavericks as they navigate the competitive Western Conference, bringing his experience and scoring punch to the second unit. Fans are eagerly watching the NBA updates to see how D’Angelo Russell settles into his new role and contributes to the Mavericks’ success.
D’Angelo Russell’s Enduring Legacy
D’Angelo Russell’s journey through the NBA has been a testament to his talent, resilience, and evolution as a player. From being a highly touted NBA Draft pick and Ohio State Buckeyes legend to an NBA All-Star with the Brooklyn Nets, DLo has consistently proven his ability to impact the game. His versatility as a point guard and shooting guard, combined with his impressive playmaking and scoring arsenal, makes him a valuable asset on any team.
Now with the Dallas Mavericks, D’Angelo Russell is embarking on a fresh chapter, bringing his veteran presence and unique skill set to a championship contender. As the 2025-26 NBA season unfolds, fans globally, especially those following basketball news in the USA and India, will be keen to see DLo thrive in Dallas. His career is a compelling story of adapting, overcoming challenges, and continuously striving for excellence in the demanding world of professional basketball. The future looks bright for D’Angelo Russell and the Dallas Mavericks roster.
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