DALLAS, TEXAS — The Dallas Mavericks have picked up the fourth-year team option on center Dereck Lively II for the 2026-27 season.
Lively, the 7-foot-1 Duke product, has quickly emerged as a key piece in Dallas’ core. He earned NBA All-Rookie Second Team honors in 2024 after averaging 8.8 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks while setting a franchise record with 74.7% shooting from the field.
In his second season, Lively continued to shine, averaging 8.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks while shooting 70.2%. The Philadelphia native also became one of only five Mavericks to start their careers with two straight 50-block seasons.
Originally drafted 12th overall by Oklahoma City in 2023, Lively’s rights were traded to Dallas on draft night — a move that’s clearly paying off.
