#56 overall pick Vsevolod Ishchenkowhose draft rights are controlled by the Mavericks, will remain in Russia for the 2026/27 season, his agent Nafiset Udychak said All Things Mavs (Twitter references).
“Lokomotiv Kuban and Dallas have built a strong working relationship. The clubs are in constant communication and share the same vision of player development“, Udychak said in a statement.
“We believe this is the best move for Seva’s long-term development. He will have another season in a great environment with significant minutes, a lot of responsibility and the opportunity to continue to improve every part of his game.
“Importantly, this decision does not change Seva’s attitude toward Dallas. He enjoyed his experience with the Mavericks organization, appreciated how everyone welcomed him, and remains highly motivated to get his chance in the NBA. We see this as another year of development, not a change in destination.
“Please tell the Mavs fans how grateful Seva is for all the support they gave him during Summer League. It meant a lot to him.”
Udychak introduced this update in early August, but the news slipped through our cracks until now. We did an in-depth analysis to find out Ishchenko’s plans after he wasn’t on the training camp roster (Link to Twitter) of the Texas Legends, Dallas’ G League affiliate.
Ishchenko confirmed at a press conference on August 8 that he will stay at Lokomotiv Kuban this season (story through command).
“As for the return to Lokomotiv-Kuban, the decision was not made only by me; it was all together: Dallas and Loco– said Ishchenko as part of a larger quote.The best option for me was to return here and play in Krasnodar next season. In addition, it is very nice to return to my home team, to the place where I grew up and spent so many years. I really enjoy playing here, just being here. We have set the most ambitious goals for the next season and we want it to be successful. Therefore, we will work and try to progress.”
The news did not come as a surprise. The Russian defender/forward has spent the last few years with Lokomotiv Kuban and was seen as a likely draft and retention candidate.
Ishchenko posted 8.7 ppg, 4.6 ppg, 2.0 ppg and 1.3 rpg on .506/.451/.781 shooting in 48 games (23.6 ppg) last season. The 6’8″ wing played five games (27.5 MPG) with the Mavs in the Las Vegas Summer League, averaging 9.6 ppg, 4.4 ppg, 3.0 ppg and 1.2 ppg while shooting .433/.400/.611.
Due to the fact that Ishchenko has confirmed that he is staying in Russia, the plans for all the elections in the 2026 draft have already been drawn up. You can read more in our list 2026 Draft Signings.