After the Indiana Pacers signed rookie Enrique Freeman to their latest two-way contract, it officially marked the end of center Oscar Tshiebwe’s time with the team. Although he has a lot of potential, it was clear that the Pacers had no room for him on the roster. Fortunately for the 24-year-old, however, his NBA career will now continue with a new team.
In an official statement from the team, the Utah Jazz announced that they have signed Tshiebwe to a two-way contract. To make room for the former Pacers star, the team waived guard Taevion Kinsey.
The Pacers initially signed the former Kentucky player as a free agent last year. In eight games with the team, Tshiebwe averaged 3.3 points and 2 rebounds in 5.3 minutes per game. While his NBA stats are rather inconsequential, Tshiebwe made his presence known in the G League.
In 23 games with the Indiana Mad Ants of the G League, Tshiebwe averaged 16.2 points, 16 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1 steal per game (league-leading). In addition, he shot 55.7% from the field. Tshiebwe’s performance earned him a spot on the G League All-Rookie First Team and the All-G League First Team. In addition, he was also named G League Rookie of the Year.
Although Tshiebwe looked great in the G League, it quickly became clear that there was no place for him on the main roster. Besides the obvious center Myles Turner (and Pascal Siakam, who can play center at a secondary position), the Pacers have plenty of other big men standing in Tshiebwe’s way.
In the offseason, the team signed James Wiseman to a two-year contract that is good for at least 18 years. Although Wiseman hasn’t been as successful in his four-year NBA career, his game is still interesting and he could play a big role in the upcoming season.
Additionally, the Pacers likely expect former first-round pick Isaiah Jackson to play a larger role next season, especially after Jalen Smith left for the Chicago Bulls.
Tshiebwe deserves a chance to compete for a spot in the NBA. Unfortunately, it seemed like that wouldn’t be the case with the Pacers anytime soon.
