The Philadelphia 76ers announced on Friday that they have waived wing Ricky Council IV, creating an open spot on their roster. The move comes as the team seeks to address performance challenges and lineup flexibility, with Council’s 2025-26 salary of about $2.2 million remaining non-guaranteed until January 10.
Background on Ricky Council IV’s tenure with the Sixers
Undrafted in 2023, the 23-year-old Council signed a two-way contract with Philadelphia and impressed early with displays of athleticism and confidence. Despite this, his playing time was limited; he averaged 17.1 minutes per game during a season where he played 73 games, the most on an injury-plagued Sixers roster.
Council also appeared twice in the G League with the Delaware Blue Coats. Nonetheless, head coach Nick Nurse expressed public concerns about Council’s rebounding ability, emphasizing this as a key area for improvement to maximize his impact on the floor.
“That’s really his forte, to play in the open floor,”
Nurse said on January 9.
“We certainly are trying to encourage that from him. The biggest concern I have on that, however, is he’s got to get the rebound to do it. My big emphasis point for him and one of the things he needs to do more and better is rebound on both ends.”
—Nick Nurse, Sixers head coach
“He can jump, he’s quick, he’s athletic, and that makeup should result in some more rebounding at both ends for him. Really trying to get him to get on the glass more so he can do more of that.”
—Nick Nurse, Sixers head coach
Performance challenges leading to Council’s release
Ricky Council IV’s shooting struggles were a significant factor in the decision. His field goal percentage dropped to 38.2 percent, while his three-point accuracy fell to 25.8 percent during the past season. These issues, combined with limited contributions on the boards, impacted his overall effectiveness with the team.
Roster implications and future prospects for the Sixers
With Council waived, the Sixers currently hold 13 standard contracts, keeping them two slots below the roster limit. President of basketball operations Daryl Morey recently indicated the team‘s intent to negotiate with restricted free agent Quentin Grimes. Meanwhile, Hunter Sallis, Dominick Barlow, and Jabari Walker fill the club’s three two-way contract positions, ensuring depth as Philadelphia navigates an evolving roster. The team’s moves suggest a strategic effort to refine its lineup as the season progresses.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Ricky Council IV a rookie?
A. The Sixers signed Ricky Council IV to a two-way contract after he had a strong college career at Wichita State and Arkansas. As a rookie in the 2023-24 season, he played 32 games, averaging 5.4 points and 1.4 rebounds, which helped him secure a regular contract with Philadelphia.
Q. How did Ricky Council IV get his name?
A. He’s known as Ricky Council IV because his brothers already have the names Rickey Council II and III.
Q. What is Ricky Council IV’s full name?
A. Ricky Nickardo Council IV, who was born on August 3, 2001, plays professional basketball in the NBA for the Philadelphia 76ers.