When the Sixers opened training camp ahead of the 2025-26 season, head coach Nick Nurse was asked who had caught his eye early on. His answer turned heads-not because of a flashy name, but because it came from off the radar: Dominick Barlow.
At the time, Barlow was on a two-way contract, fighting for a real shot in the league. But Nurse saw something-a relentless motor on the glass, smart decision-making, and an ability to impact the game without needing the ball in his hands.
Fast forward a few months, and that early praise has aged well.
Barlow hasn’t just earned minutes-he’s claimed a starting role at power forward, helping stabilize what many believed was Philly’s biggest question mark heading into the season. That frontcourt spot next to Joel Embiid was a revolving door last year, but Barlow has brought consistency, energy, and a blue-collar edge that’s resonated both in the locker room and on the floor.
Now, he’s officially earned his place. Ahead of Thursday night’s matchup with the Lakers, Barlow signed a standard NBA contract, according to a source. The deal locks him into the Sixers’ full roster for the rest of the season and includes a team option for 2026-27-giving Philadelphia flexibility to either keep him on a team-friendly deal or work toward a longer-term commitment.
It’s a big step for a player who began the year on the margins. And it didn’t come without some roster maneuvering.
Uncertain whether a deal would be finalized in time for the Lakers game, the Sixers signed Charles Bassey and Patrick Baldwin Jr. to 10-day contracts earlier in the week, inching closer to the 15-man roster minimum. That move gave them a bit of breathing room-essentially buying time to get Barlow’s contract done without him missing any action.
But ultimately, both sides got it across the finish line. And the Sixers may have done more than just reward a hardworking player-they might’ve secured a key piece of their rotation for the long haul.
Barlow’s rise isn’t just a feel-good story-it’s a testament to what happens when preparation meets opportunity. He’s given the Sixers toughness, rebounding, and defensive versatility, and he’s done it without needing plays called for him. That kind of glue guy can be invaluable on a team with championship aspirations.
And now, he’s got the contract to match the impact.