Caleb Martin, a 6-foot-5, 205-pound small forward, has carved a notable career in the National Basketball Association (NBA) despite going undrafted in the 2019 NBA draft. Born on September 28, 1995, Martin has demonstrated resilience, athleticism, and a versatile skillset that has made him a valuable asset to every team he has played for. Currently a member of the Dallas Mavericks, Martin’s journey is a testament to perseverance and continuous improvement in the competitive landscape of professional basketball.
Early Life and High School Career
Born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Caleb Martin’s basketball journey began in high school. He honed his skills at Davie County High School in Mocksville, North Carolina, where he showcased his potential as a talented player. His development continued at the prestigious Oak Hill Academy in Mouth of Wilson, Virginia, a well-known basketball powerhouse that has produced numerous NBA players. At Oak Hill, Martin further refined his game under intense competition and high-level coaching, preparing him for the rigors of college basketball.
College Career: From NC State to Mountain West Player of the Year
Martin’s college career began at North Carolina State University (NC State) alongside his twin brother, Cody Martin. He played two seasons for the Wolfpack (2014-2016), showing flashes of his athletic ability and scoring potential. In his sophomore year, he averaged 11.5 points and 4.7 rebounds per game, demonstrating his capability to contribute on both ends of the floor.
Following his two seasons at NC State, Caleb transferred to the University of Nevada, Reno, where he sat out the 2016-2017 season due to NCAA transfer rules. He returned to the court with a significant impact in the 2017-2018 season. As a junior for the Nevada Wolf Pack, Martin had a breakout year, averaging 18.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. His stellar performance earned him the Mountain West Conference Player of the Year award, recognizing him as one of the top players in the conference.
In his senior season (2018-2019) at Nevada, Martin continued to excel, averaging 19.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. He and his brother Cody formed a dynamic duo that led Nevada to the NCAA Tournament. Caleb’s impressive college career showcased his scoring prowess, versatility, and ability to perform under pressure, attracting the attention of NBA scouts despite not being selected in the NBA draft immediately after his senior year.
Professional Career: The Undrafted Path to the NBA
After going undrafted in the 2019 NBA draft, Martin signed with the Charlotte Hornets on July 31, 2019, joining his brother Cody, who had been drafted by the team in the second round. This marked the beginning of Caleb’s NBA journey.
Charlotte Hornets (2019-2021)
Martin initially signed a two-way contract with the Hornets, splitting his time between the NBA team and their G League affiliate, the Greensboro Swarm. However, his contract was soon converted to a standard NBA deal, a testament to his early impact and potential. During his time with the Hornets, Martin demonstrated his athleticism and ability to contribute as a versatile wing player. He played 77 games over two seasons, showcasing his defensive capabilities and developing offensive game. Notably, on March 9, 2020, he scored a season-high 23 points against the Atlanta Hawks, providing a glimpse of his scoring potential at the NBA level.
Miami Heat (2021-2024)
On August 7, 2021, Martin was waived by the Hornets. However, his NBA journey continued when he signed with the Miami Heat on September 28, 2021. This move proved to be a significant turning point in his career. Under the guidance of coach Erik Spoelstra and within the Heat’s renowned player development system, Martin flourished.
In Miami, Martin’s role expanded, and he became an integral part of the team’s rotation. His energy, defensive tenacity, and improved offensive consistency made him a valuable asset. During the 2022-2023 season, Martin played a crucial role in the Heat’s surprising run to the NBA Finals. His standout performances in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Boston Celtics garnered national attention. In Game 7, he scored 26 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, showcasing his ability to perform at the highest level in critical moments.
Over three seasons with the Heat, Martin averaged around 9 to 10 points and 4 rebounds per game, consistently providing valuable minutes and contributing to the team’s success. His versatility allowed him to play multiple positions, and his defensive effort was a key component of the Heat’s identity.
Philadelphia 76ers (2024-2025)
In the 2024 offseason, Martin signed with the Philadelphia 76ers, adding another chapter to his NBA career. While his time with the 76ers was relatively short, he continued to demonstrate his value as a reliable wing player who could contribute on both ends of the court.
Dallas Mavericks (2025-Present)
As of the current date (May 1, 2025), Caleb Martin is a member of the Dallas Mavericks. Joining a team with star players like Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, Martin brings his established skillset and experience to contribute to the Mavericks’ aspirations. His ability to play multiple positions, defend effectively, and provide scoring off the bench makes him a valuable addition to the team.
Playing Style and Strengths
Caleb Martin is known for his athleticism, versatility, and defensive prowess. He is a high-energy player who can guard multiple positions effectively. His quickness and agility allow him to stay in front of smaller guards, while his strength enables him to hold his own against bigger forwards. Martin is also a capable rebounder for his size.
Offensively, Martin has developed into a reliable scorer. While not a primary ball-handler or playmaker, he is effective in catch-and-shoot situations and has shown improvement in his ability to attack the basket. His three-point shooting has become a more consistent part of his game, making him a threat from beyond the arc. His offensive game complements his defensive abilities, making him a valuable two-way player.
Personal Life
Caleb Martin is the twin brother of Cody Martin, who also plays in the NBA. Their journey from high school to college and the NBA is a unique story of siblinghood and shared dreams. Their parents are Jenny Bennett and Tyrone Martin. Caleb is known for his grounded personality and strong work ethic, which have been instrumental in his success as an undrafted player in the highly competitive NBA.
FAQs
Who is Caleb Martin?
Caleb Martin is an American professional basketball player currently playing as a small forward for the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA. Born on September 28, 1995, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, he is known for his versatility, defensive prowess, and clutch performances. Martin went undrafted in the 2019 NBA Draft but has since carved out a significant role in the league.
What is Caleb Martin’s college basketball background?
Martin began his collegiate career at North Carolina State University (2014–2016) before transferring to the University of Nevada (2017–2019). At Nevada, he earned accolades such as the Mountain West Player of the Year in 2018 and was a two-time First-team All-Mountain West selection.
How did Caleb Martin start his NBA career?
After going undrafted in 2019, Martin signed with the Charlotte Hornets, where he played alongside his twin brother, Cody Martin. He spent two seasons with the Hornets, including time with their G League affiliate, the Greensboro Swarm.
What teams has Caleb Martin played for in the NBA?
Martin’s NBA journey includes stints with the Charlotte Hornets, Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers, and currently, the Dallas Mavericks. He joined the Heat in 2021, where he had a breakout performance, especially during the 2023 NBA Playoffs. In 2024, he signed with the 76ers before being traded to the Mavericks in February 2025.
What are Caleb Martin’s career statistics?
As of the 2024–25 NBA season, Martin has averaged 8.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game over 297 career games. In the 2024–25 season, he averaged 9.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game.
Why did Caleb Martin decline a $65 million offer from the Miami Heat?
In 2024, Martin turned down a five-year, $65 million extension from the Miami Heat, opting instead to sign a four-year, $32 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. He cited various behind-the-scenes factors influencing his decision and expressed no regrets about the move.
What is Caleb Martin’s current contract status?
Martin is in the first year of a four-year, $35 million contract, which includes a player option for the 2027–28 season. The deal also features a 15% trade bonus and potential incentives totaling over $5 million.
What is Caleb Martin’s relationship with his twin brother, Cody Martin?
Caleb’s twin brother, Cody Martin, is also an NBA player, currently with the Phoenix Suns. The twins have a close bond, having played together in high school, college, and briefly in the NBA with the Charlotte Hornets. They also co-host the Martin Twins Basketball Camp to give back to the community.
How did rapper J. Cole influence Caleb Martin’s NBA career?
Rapper J. Cole played a pivotal role in Martin’s career by recommending him to Miami Heat assistant coach Caron Butler during the 2021 offseason. This endorsement led to Martin signing with the Heat, where he became a key contributor.
What is Caleb Martin’s nickname?
Caleb Martin is nicknamed “The Undertaker,” a moniker that reflects his impactful presence on the court.
What is Caleb Martin’s current injury status?
As of February 2025, Martin was sidelined with a hip injury. The Dallas Mavericks are optimistic about his return to action within 2 to 3 weeks.
What are Caleb Martin’s social media handles?
Caleb Martin is active on social media. You can follow him on Instagram at @caleb_martin10 and on Twitter at @Calebmartin14.
To conclude
Caleb Martin’s journey from an undrafted player to a significant contributor in the NBA is a testament to his resilience, work ethic, and talent. His ability to adapt and excel in various roles across multiple teams showcases his versatility on the court. Martin’s decision to turn down a more lucrative offer from the Miami Heat in favor of a better fit with the Philadelphia 76ers highlights his commitment to personal and professional growth. His close relationship with his twin brother, Cody, and the support from figures like J. Cole have played influential roles in his career trajectory. As he continues with the Dallas Mavericks, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how Martin’s career unfolds in the coming seasons.
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