Grant Nelson, a 2020 graduate of Devils Lake High School, is expected to sign a 10-day contract with the Brooklyn Nets, according to NBA reporter Michael Scotto.
Nelson was not selected in the 2025 NBA Draft but joined the Brooklyn Nets on an Exhibit 10 deal to compete for a two-way contract for the 2025-26 season. He participated in all of the team’s NBA Summer League games and later signed a training camp deal. After being waived, he played for the Long Island Nets in the G League.
During his time with Long Island, Nelson has averaged 11 points per game on 55 percent shooting and collected six rebounds per game this season.
By signing with the Brooklyn Nets, Nelson becomes one of several former North Dakota high school graduates to appear on an NBA roster. Others include Les Jepsen (Bowbells High School, class of 1985), Glenn Hansen (Grand Forks Central, class of 1970), and Phil Jackson (Williston High School, class of 1963).
Nelson earned recognition during his high school career as a two-time North Dakota Associated Press Sportscasters & Sportswriters Association (NDAPSSA) Class A Boys Basketball All-State Team selection—First Team as a senior and Second Team as a junior—and received NDAPSSA Mr. Basketball honors in 2020. He scored a total of 1,058 points in high school.
Following high school, Nelson played college basketball at North Dakota State University and then at the University of Alabama. While at Alabama, he contributed to the team’s run to the NCAA men’s basketball Final Four in 2024 and helped secure an Elite Eight finish in 2025.
“Follow NDHSAA on ‘X’ at @NDHSAA and visit www.ndhsaanow.com for the latest NDHSAA sports and activities news from around the state.”
