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God Shammgod Reflects on Working With Kyrie Irving, Luka Dončić After Dallas Mavericks Exit

Grant AfsethGrant Afsethno comment
God Shammgod, Orlando Magic, Dallas Mavericks, NBA
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God Shammgod spent nine seasons shaping the Dallas Mavericks’ backcourt talent, leaving a mark on two of the NBA’s most gifted guards. Now with the Orlando Magic, he still speaks glowingly about his time working with Kyrie Irving and Luka Dončić.

“I love Kyrie [Irving], you know what I mean? I know his whole family, so I knew him since he was young,” Shammgod told NBC Sports while discussing his new book, Word of God. “Luka Dončić, of course, Luka’s like amazing.”

Coaching Role With the Dallas Mavericks

Shammgod joined the Mavericks in 2019 as an assistant coach and player development specialist, working under Rick Carlisle and later Jason Kidd. His work centered on ball-handling and footwork, with his signature crossover — the “Shammgod” — serving as both teaching tool and inspiration.

Irving often praised Shammgod’s role in his day-to-day growth, while Dončić leaned on him to sharpen counters and timing that made him one of the league’s toughest covers. Beyond skill work, Shammgod was seen as a mentor and authentic presence within the locker room, known for his energy and his ability to connect with players.

Shammgod was among several members of Dallas’ staff who did not receive contract extensions following the team’s run to the 2024 NBA Finals. His deal expired earlier this summer, opening the door to a move to Orlando.

In his place, Dallas brought in Phil Handy and Mike Penberthy — a pair of championship-winning assistants whose arrival has been described by multiple NBA coaches around the league to DallasHoopsJournal.com as giving the Mavericks the best player development staff in the NBA.

God Shammgod’s Influence and New Chapter

During his tenure, Shammgod became a fixture in Dallas, respected not only by Mavericks players but by coaches and peers throughout the NBA. His authenticity and hands-on development style helped foster a culture where players felt supported in pushing their creativity on the court.

In July, he joined Jamahl Mosley’s staff in Orlando, where he became a full assistant coach. Shammgod expressed gratitude to the Mavericks organization, Mark Cuban, and the Dallas community for embracing him throughout his time with the franchise.

“Man, it’s gon’ be amazing,” Shammgod said of his new opportunity. “I just think that’s where I’m at right now in life. And I think God gave me a perfect opportunity with a young team that we all could grow together and do something special.”

While the focus shifts to Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Orlando’s young core, Shammgod’s years in Dallas — highlighted by his work with Irving and Dončić — remain central to his coaching career.

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Tags :Dallas MavericksGod ShammgodJason KiddKyrie IrvingLuka DončićMark CubanMike PenberthyNBA coaching staffPhil HandyRick Carlisle

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Grant Afseth

Grant Afseth

Senior Writer
Grant Afseth is a Senior Writer for DallasHoopsJournal.com, where he leads in-depth coverage of the Mavericks, Wings, and more. Between a focus on the latest news, closer looks at games, front office strategy, and more, Afseth provides objective coverage. Afseth contributes broader NBA coverage across platforms and has been cited in national outlets for his reporting and analysis. With nearly a decade of journalism experience, Afseth has covered the NBA and WNBA for multiple major outlets, including Athlon Sports, BallIsLife, Sportskeeda, and RG.org. He previously reported on the Indiana Pacers for CNHI’s Kokomo Tribune and the Mavericks for FanNation.
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