Houston Mallette, a seasoned guard who completed his college career at the University of Alabama, has officially signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Chicago Bulls, a move first reported by The Athletic. The deal places Mallette among a growing list of former Crimson Tide players transitioning to the NBA.
Alabama’s Pipeline to the NBA
Mallette is not alone in this exodus. Latrell Wrightsell Jr., another standout from Alabama’s recent Sweet 16 run, has secured an Exhibit 10 agreement with the Charlotte Hornets, while Labaron Philon was selected No. 22 overall in the first round by the Philadelphia 76ers. The trio illustrates the increasing impact of Alabama’s program on professional basketball.
Coach Nate Oats, who guided the Crimson Tide through a period of rapid growth, frequently highlighted Mallette’s relentless work ethic and hustle during practices and games. Oats praised the guard’s ability to contribute in multiple facets, noting that his defensive intensity and rebounding were hallmarks of his game.
During his final season with Alabama, Mallette averaged 6.6 points and 4.5 rebounds per contest, numbers that may appear modest on the surface but mask his broader contributions. His redshirt freshman year was marred by knee injuries, yet he managed to rebuild his career and emerge as a reliable role player.
Exhibit 10 Agreements and What They Mean
Exhibit 10 contracts are two‑way deals that allow players to earn a guaranteed salary if they remain on the NBA roster, while also providing a pathway to the G‑League. For Mallette, the contract represents both a financial safety net and an opportunity to prove his worth at the highest level of basketball.
The Chicago Bulls, traditionally a team that values depth and versatility, stand to benefit from Mallette’s defensive grit and ability to play multiple positions. His addition signals the Bulls’ intent to bolster their bench ahead of the upcoming season, leveraging the experience of former college teammates already on the roster.