Exclusive: Mavericks' Kylor Kelley Reflects on 'Unreal' First NBA Regular Season Game

Kylor Kelley describes his NBA debut with the Mavericks as "unreal," emphasizing his vocal role and excitement on the court.

Photo: Dallas Mavericks

NEW ORLEANS — When Kylor Kelley checked into the Dallas Mavericks’ 130-108 victory over the Washington Wizards, it marked the first time he played in an NBA regular season game in his career.

With Dereck Lively II (right ankle stress fracture), Maxi Kleber (right foot fracture), and Dwight Powell (right hip strain) all sidelined simultaneously, the Mavericks urgently needed to add a center. Kelley practiced with the South Bay Lakers on Sunday before signing his two-way contract, then played with Dallas the next day.

Against the Wizards, Kelley logged roughly eight minutes and totaled one point and four rebounds. He described the experience as “unreal” but acknowledged he wasn’t nervous but rather excited to impact the court. He was satisfied with his performance.

“It was unreal, really. It was my first NBA regular season game,” Kelley told DallasHoopsJournal.com. “I had played one preseason game with LA back in October, but this was totally different. It was just awesome being out there. I wasn't really feeling nervous, just excited, and had a lot of energy that I wanted to express on the court, and I thought I did that with the time that I got.”