The Austin Spurs are making a calculated move to bolster their frontcourt depth, acquiring the G League rights to Christian Koloko from the available player pool. While it might not make headlines on a national level, this is a savvy pick-up by San Antonio’s affiliate - one that carries some intriguing upside if Koloko can regain his early-career form.
Technically, Koloko was claimed off the G League waiver wire, according to the league’s transaction log. That’s a standard procedural note, but what’s more compelling is the story behind the 7-footer’s journey to this point.
A second-round pick in the 2022 NBA Draft (33rd overall), Koloko showed flashes of promise during his rookie season with the Toronto Raptors. His length, mobility, and shot-blocking instincts made him a natural fit in a modern NBA defensive scheme.
But just as he was starting to find his footing, a serious health issue derailed his momentum. A blood clot condition forced him to sit out the entire 2023-24 season, a tough break for any young player - especially one still carving out a role in the league.
Toronto ultimately waived Koloko in January 2024, and for a while, his future in pro basketball was uncertain. But after months of recovery and evaluation, he was medically cleared to return by the NBA’s fitness-to-play panel in October 2024. That green light opened the door for a comeback, and the Lakers gave him a shot, signing him to a two-way deal in July.
Koloko spent this past season with the Lakers organization, working to shake off the rust and get back into game shape. He re-signed on another two-way deal in July, but with Los Angeles needing to make space for Drew Timme, Koloko was waived in late November.
Now, the Cameroonian center finds himself with a new opportunity in Austin. While he’s still an unrestricted NBA free agent - meaning any team can sign him - the G League rights acquisition gives the Spurs a front-row seat to his development and potential bounce-back.
Through 97 NBA games, Koloko has averaged 2.8 points and 2.7 rebounds in just under 12 minutes per night. Those numbers don’t leap off the page, but context matters.
He’s a rim-running, shot-blocking big who’s still just 23 years old, with the kind of physical tools that can’t be taught. If he’s fully healthy and can rediscover his timing and conditioning, there’s a path back to the league.
For Austin, this is a low-risk, high-upside move. For Koloko, it’s a chance to prove he still belongs. And for any NBA team watching closely - especially those in need of size and rim protection - he’s a name worth keeping on the radar.