The Milwaukee Bucks have reportedly signed big man Ibou Badji, per HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto.
The Milwaukee Bucks have agreed to a deal with Ibou Badji, league sources told @hoopshype. Badji appeared in 22 games for the Portland Trail Blazers last season. pic.twitter.com/LZmr3HtgkR
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) September 13, 2024
Badji most recently spent part of last season with the Portland Trail Blazers. On the year, he averaged 1.5 points and 2.3 rebounds. Badji mostly played as a bench player given his two-way contract status. However, the 21-year-old did receive one start last season.
In a January loss to the Dallas Mavericks, Badji was the team’s starting center. Badji scored no points, but he recorded four rebounds and two blocks. The big man also fouled out after nearly 15 minutes of play.
Currently, it is unknown what the details of Badji’s contract with Milwaukee are. The Bucks already have their three two-way contract spots filled, so it is safe to assume they signed Badji to a training camp contract.
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Ibou Badji Has Ties With the Milwaukee Bucks Organization
Badji initially began his career in the NBA after signing with the Bucks as an undrafted free agent in 2022. However, he never appeared in a game for the main roster, only playing for the Wisconsin Herd of the G League instead before signing a two-way deal with Portland. Badji returned and also played in six games for the Herd last season before signing a second two-way contract with the Trail Blazers.
This time around, it seems highly unlikely that Badji will play any type of role in Milwaukee right away. However, there is a world where Badji can eventually crack the rotation. Currently, the Bucks only have Brook Lopez as a reliable center option. Of course, Bobby Portis and Giannis Antetokounmpo have experience playing the position, but this is something to monitor as the season goes on.
Milwaukee also has Anzejs Pasecniks on a two-way contract, but he will likely have a small role with the team next season.
What Ibou Badji Could Bring to Milwaukee
Since this is technically Badji’s third stint with the organization, it is clear he has some fans in Milwaukee. And, ultimately, there is a lot to like about the Senegal native. Depending on where you look Badji is listed anywhere from 7’0″ to 7’2″. Regardless of what his official height is, one thing is certain–he will almost always be the tallest player on the court. His size and defensive presence are valuable. Additionally, he is a legitimate shot-blocking threat, averaging 2.7 blocks across 23 games in the G League. He is far from a polished, completely NBA-ready player. However, Badji has shown glimpses of upside in his limited playing time.
Joining the Bucks is a low-risk, high-reward move for both sides. While Badji may not see minutes on an NBA court this season, the potential is there. And for a team like Milwaukee, who is simply just not getting any younger, signing a player like Badji could pay dividends later on.
