‘I Love Winning’: Naji Marshall Finding Rhythm In Dallas Mavericks’ Split-Action, Positionless System [Exclusive]
With the Dallas Mavericks entering the 2025–26 season emphasizing versatility and defense, Naji Marshall has quickly carved out his place as a key connector on both ends of the floor.
Marshall was productive in the preseason, averaging 9.5 points on 52% shooting across four games, including a 17-point outing against Utah and 13 points versus Charlotte. That performance reflected the consistency he brought last season, when he averaged 13.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.0 assists in 69 games.
Finding Rhythm in Jay Triano’s Offense
Under assistant coach Jay Triano, the Mavericks have implemented more half-court actions that play through the high post and utilize their bigs in delay sets. The system features constant motion — split actions, Zoom handoffs, and off-ball screening designed to open lanes for cutters and shooters. For Marshall, that structure has created a natural rhythm to impact the game without needing heavy touches.
“Just open shots, being able to run in transition, and just the spacing,” Marshall told DallasHoopsJournal.com. “The players we have and the threats they are on offense make it easier. Every action is aggressive.”
By running the floor and spacing to the corners, Marshall has stayed ready to attack closeouts and play off the catch, often using his strength to get into the paint and collapse defenses. That complementary style has made him a seamless fit alongside Anthony Davis, Cooper Flagg, and P.J. Washington — all of whom draw defensive attention in the frontcourt.
“Those guys are big, fast, and strong,” Marshall told DallasHoopsJournal.com of the Spurs, who visit American Airlines Center for Wednesday’s opener. “They play hard and they’re young. So we’ve got to get out in transition, limit them to one rebound — they all crash the glass — and just play harder than them.”
Embracing Defense and a Positionless Role
The Mavericks have made it clear that defense will define their season. After inconsistent stretches a year ago, the team has set a goal of ranking among the league’s top three defenses. For Marshall, that challenge aligns perfectly with his mindset and role — as someone who takes on tough assignments on a nightly basis.
“Just embracing my role and trying to stay on the floor,” he told DallasHoopsJournal.com. “That’s the guarantee — making myself available to the coaches and doing whatever they ask me to do.”
Marshall’s willingness to play anywhere on the floor has become a defining trait since his arrival in Dallas. A natural forward, he’s also started games at point guard and filled gaps across multiple positions. That adaptability has made him a reliable option in Kidd’s positionless system.
“It’s something I’ve been doing my whole life,” Marshall told DallasHoopsJournal.com. “I love winning, I love impacting winning, and I’ve always made myself available to coaches and teammates wherever they need me. It’s a testimony to who I’ve been. Wherever I can help, I look forward to it.”
As the Mavericks tip off their new season against Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs, Marshall’s energy and versatility will remain vital. Whether cutting through Triano’s motion offense or anchoring defensive possessions, his ability to connect the team’s moving parts continues to define his value.
And for Marshall, the mission remains the same: contribute, compete, and help the Mavericks win.
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