Christian Koloko’s NBA journey is taking him to New Orleans. The former Toronto Raptors big man has agreed to a one-year contract with the Pelicans, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, as he looks to earn a spot on the team’s final roster.
The Raptors selected the 6-foot-11 centre 33rd overall in the 2022 NBA Draft after three seasons at the University of Arizona. During his final college season, Koloko established himself as one of the top defensive players in the country, earning Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year honours after averaging nearly three blocks per game.
He was meant to bring that same defensive presence to Toronto during his rookie season, appearing in 58 games while averaging 3.1 points, 2.9 rebounds and one block per game.
However, his time with the Raptors was cut short during the 2023-24 season after he dealt with a blood clot issue. Toronto waived him in January 2024, and he was later ruled medically ineligible to play by the NBA.
Koloko eventually received clearance to return and signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in September 2024. He played 37 games with Los Angeles before spending last season between the Lakers, the Memphis Grizzlies, the Atlanta Hawks and the G League.
Now, he will get another chance with the Pelicans. The move makes sense for the Pels who get a defensive-minded big man to add to its frontcourt. With Zion Williamson and rookie Derrick Queen expected to share the floor, the Pelicans could use Koloko’s rim protection and defensive ability off the bench after struggling on that end of the court last season.
