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What’s an Exhibit 10 contract in the NBA? For Kentucky’s Davion Mintz, it’s a chance.

Lexington Herald-Leader
·2 min read

Former University of Kentucky guard Davion Mintz was not among the 58 players selected in Thursday night’s NBA Draft, but the former Wildcat will have a shot at making a team.

After the draft, Mintz agreed to sign an Exhibit 10 contract with the Washington Wizards, according to multiple media reports.

Exhibit 10 contracts are a product of the league’s most recent collective bargaining agreement. According to HoopsRumors.com, they are one-year deals that pay the NBA’s minimum salary but offer no guarantees beyond what the player earns for as long as he’s with the team. Bonus money can also be attached to the contract, although terms of Mintz’s deal have not been announced.

The contract opens the door for Mintz to play for Washington’s team in the NBA Summer League next month, then possibly compete for a roster spot in training camp or an opening with the Wizards’ G League affiliate.

The Wizards drafted Wisconsin guard Johnny Davis with the No. 10 pick in the draft Thursday night, then added international center Yannick Nzosa with the 54th pick. After the draft, the Wizards reportedly signed Texas A&M guard Quenton Jackson to an Exhibition 10 deal along with Mintz.

Washington is led by veteran stars Bradley Beal and Kristaps Porzingis but face a lot of question marks beyond that after finishing 35-47 and in 12th place in the 15-team Eastern Conference last season. The roster is expected to look vastly different in 2022-23, so opportunities could be available.

Davion Mintz was not drafted Thursday night but has reportedly signed with the Washington Wizards.
Davion Mintz was not drafted Thursday night but has reportedly signed with the Washington Wizards.

UK Coach John Calipari promoted Mintz for the SEC Sixth Man of the Year award last season. Mintz averaged 8.5 points, 24.8 minutes and was third on the team with 55 assists.

ESPN draft analyst Jonathan Givony spoke of Mintz’s game before the draft. Mintz, who turns 24 next week, played three seasons at Creighton before transferring and playing two at Kentucky.

“Not exactly one bankable skill . . . ,” Givony said. “As a 6-3 guy who’s not exactly a point guard, not exactly an elite shooter. Does bring some real toughness on the defensive end. Played a good role for (UK). “So, I think he’s a guy people will want to have on their summer league team, and we could definitely see in the G League next year.”

The NBA Summer League, which includes all 30 NBA teams, plays out July 7-17 in Las Vegas.