What's Happening?
The Cleveland Cavaliers have signed guard Zeke Mayo to an Exhibit 10 contract, a move that was quickly followed by his waiver. Mayo, an undrafted rookie from Kansas, is expected to join the Cleveland Charge,
the Cavaliers' G League affiliate. During his college career, Mayo played one season with the Kansas Jayhawks, where he averaged 14.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game, with a shooting accuracy of 42.2% from three-point range. He also had a notable performance in the NCAA Tournament, scoring 18 points and grabbing six rebounds in a first-round loss to Arkansas. Prior to his time at Kansas, Mayo spent three seasons at South Dakota State, earning the title of Summit League Player of the Year in 2024. If Mayo remains with the Charge for at least 60 days, he could earn a bonus of up to $85,300.
Why It's Important?
This move highlights the Cavaliers' strategy of utilizing the G League to develop young talent. By signing Mayo to an Exhibit 10 contract, the Cavaliers can evaluate his potential in a lower-stakes environment while retaining the option to bring him up to the NBA roster if he performs well. This approach allows the team to invest in player development without committing significant resources upfront. For Mayo, this opportunity provides a platform to showcase his skills and potentially secure a more permanent position within the NBA. The G League serves as a critical stepping stone for many players aiming to transition to the professional level, offering them the chance to refine their skills and gain valuable experience.
What's Next?
Zeke Mayo is expected to join the Cleveland Charge, where he will have the opportunity to prove his worth and potentially earn a call-up to the Cavaliers' main roster. His performance in the G League will be closely monitored by the Cavaliers' management, who will assess his development and readiness for the NBA. If Mayo excels, he could be considered for a two-way contract or a spot on the Cavaliers' roster in the future. The Cavaliers will continue to evaluate their roster needs and player performances as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season.
