Brooklyn’s Rebuild Needs Players Like Day’Ron Sharpe

Day’Ron Sharpe’s role on the Brooklyn Nets can be described in two words: offensive rebounder. 

At 6’10 and 265 lbs, Sharpe knows his job and knows how to do it well, clinching the highest offensive rebound percentage in NBA history (17.8%) in the 2024-2025 season. 

Whether it's going after the boards under the basket or extending possessions, his physical presence gives Brooklyn offensive second-chances.

Sharpe was selected 29th overall in the 2021 NBA Draft initially by the Phoenix Suns but was immediately traded to Brooklyn. In the last four seasons, he has solidified his spot on the team behind starting center Nic Claxton, averaging 18.7 minutes per game in the regular season. 

At the moment, Claxton's future is uncertain amid trade rumors so Sharpe’s elevated play could eventually see him move into the starting role. His continued development has become especially important as the Nets look for long-term, reliable players for their roster.  

This level of rebounding is nothing new for Sharpe, as he led the country in offensive rebound percentage (.183) in his one season at UNC. He also led the ACC in offensive rebounds per game. Sharpe built his game around effort and physicality rather than scoring early in his career, making the transition to the NBA level natural. 

Creating second-chance points and free-throw opportunities, he is the perfect example of how important rebounds are for a team. In many ways, his impact goes beyond what the statistics show, bringing energy and momentum off Brooklyn’s bench. 

Although Sharpe’s season ended early in March due to a UCL tear in his thumb, he’s expected to make a full recovery ahead of the 2026-2027 season. As a veteran alongside the five new Nets rookies, Sharpe could play a major role in setting the tone for the rebuild. 

Even if he isn’t in the running to be the face of the franchise, Sharpe is the type of player who will step up, even as a reserve, to establish the consistency needed to grow long-term. 

Sharpe is one of the most cost-efficient players for the franchise, performing well under his 2-year $12.5 million contract. All the more reason why the Nets need to pick up his $6.25 million team option. 

Bleacher Report ranked Sharpe as the 58th-best potential free agent out of 65 this offseason. Without their own first-round pick after next season, Brooklyn can’t afford to let him walk for nothing. 

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