Mavs Second-Round Pick Ishchenko Will Remain Overseas

No. 56 overall pick Vsevolod Ishchenko, whose draft rights are controlled by the Mavericks, will remain in Russia for the 2026/27 season, his agent Nafiset Udychak told All Things Mavs (Twitter links). 

“Lokomotiv Kuban and Dallas have built a strong working relationship. The clubs are in constant communication and share the same vision for the player’s development,” Udychak said in a statement.

“We believe this is the best step for Seva’s long-term development. He’ll have another season in a great environment with meaningful minutes, a lot of responsibility, and the opportunity to keep improving every part of his game.

“What’s important is that this decision doesn’t change how Seva feels about Dallas. He loved his experience with the Mavericks organization, appreciated how everyone welcomed him, and remains very motivated to earn his opportunity in the NBA. We see this as another year of development, not a change in the destination.

“Please tell the Mavs fans how grateful Seva is for all the support they showed him during Summer League. It meant a lot to him.”

Udychak provided this update in early August, but the news had slipped through our cracks until now. We did a deep dive to discover the plans for Ishchenko after he wasn’t listed on the training camp roster (Twitter link) of the Texas Legends, Dallas’ G League affiliate.

Ishchenko confirmed that he’ll stay with Lokomotiv Kuban this season at a press conference on August 8 (story via the team).

“As for returning to Lokomotiv Kuban, it wasn’t just me making the decision; it was everyone together: Dallas and Loko,” Ishchenko said as part of a larger quote. “The best option for me was to return here and play in Krasnodar next season. Also, it’s great to be back with my home team, the place where I grew up and spent so many years. I really enjoy playing here, just being here. We’ve set the most ambitious goals for next season, and want to have a successful one. Therefore, we will work and try to progress.”

The news doesn’t come as a surprise. The Russian guard/forward has spent the past few years with Lokomotiv Kuban and was viewed as a likely draft-and-stash candidate.

Ishchenko averaged 8.7 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 2.0 APG and 1.3 SPG on .506/.451/.781 shooting in 48 games (23.6 MPG) last season. The 6’8″ wing played five games (27.5 MPG) with the Mavs at the Las Vegas Summer league, averaging 9.6 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 3.0 APG and 1.2 SPG on .433/.400/.611 shooting.

With Ishchenko confirmed to be staying in Russia, the plans for all of the 2026 draft picks are now accounted for. You can read more on our list of 2026 draft pick signings.