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Raptors Strike Gold: Sign 7-Footer Jemison to Two-Way Deal
Raptors Sign Big Man Trey Jemison to Two-Way Deal
What Happened?
The Toronto Raptors have added some height to their roster! On Tuesday, NBA reporter Chris Haynes shared the news that free agent center Trey Jemison has agreed to a two-way contract with the team.
Important Point: A two-way contract means a player splits time between the NBA team and their G League (minor league) affiliate. They can spend up to 50 games with the NBA team during the regular season.
Who Is Trey Jemison?
Think of Jemison as a really tall backup plan — he’s 6-foot-10 (that’s 208 cm!) and 26 years old. Here’s the quick rundown:
- Position: Center (the tallest player, usually plays near the basket)
- Age: 26
- Height: 6’10"
- NBA Experience: 3 seasons, 74 games total
- Teams He’s Played For: Washington Wizards, Memphis Grizzlies, New Orleans Pelicans, Los Angeles Lakers, New York Knicks
His Stats (So Far)
| Stat | Average |
|---|---|
| Points | 3.7 per game |
| Rebounds | 3.4 per game |
| Blocks | 0.6 per game |
ELI5 Translation: In about 15 minutes of play per game, he gives you a few points, grabs a few rebounds, and occasionally swats a shot away. He’s not a star — he’s a reliable depth piece.
Fun Fact: He’s a Champion (Sort Of)
Jemison was on the New York Knicks roster when they won the 2026 NBA Championship.
However — he did not play a single minute in the playoffs.
Think of it like being on the winning team for a group project, but you didn’t present on stage. Still — championship ring!
Why This Matters for the Raptors
1. Fills the Last Two-Way Spot
The Raptors now have all three two-way slots filled. Jemison takes the final one.
2. Training Camp Flexibility Remains
Even with the signing, the Raptors can still make changes before the season starts. Training camp runs late September through early October, so there’s time to tweak the roster.
3. Big Body Insurance
With starting center Jakob Poeltl and backup Kelly Olynyk, Jemison adds emergency size — someone who can step in if injuries hit.
What’s Next? (Numbered Steps)
- Jemison reports to training camp (late September)
- Competes for minutes in preseason games
- Splits time between Raptors and Raptors 905 (G League team)
- Raptors evaluate — keep him, trade him, or adjust roster before opening night
Summary
- Trey Jemison, 6’10" center, signs two-way deal with Raptors
- Journeyman big man — 5 teams in 3 years, 74 career games
- Career averages: 3.7 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 0.6 BPG
- Was on 2026 Knicks championship team (no playoff minutes)
- Fills final two-way spot; Raptors still flexible through training camp
FAQ
What is a two-way contract again?
A two-way contract lets a player spend most of the season in the G League (NBA’s minor league) but be called up to the NBA team for up to 50 games. It’s a “try before you buy” deal for fringe roster players.
Why sign a guy who averages under 4 points?
Because he’s big, young, and cheap. The Raptors need emergency depth at center — not a scorer. If Poeltl or Olynyk gets hurt, Jemison can give 10–15 solid minutes of rebounding and defense.
Did he really win a championship in 2026?
Yes — according to the report, he was on the Knicks’ 2026 title roster. He didn’t play in the playoffs, but he practiced with the team all year. That experience matters.
Can the Raptors still cut him?
Absolutely. Two-way contracts are non-guaranteed. If he doesn’t impress in camp, they can waive him and sign someone else before the season starts.
Where will he play most of the year?
Most likely with the Raptors 905 (Toronto’s G League affiliate in Mississauga). He’ll get heavy minutes there to develop, with occasional NBA call-ups.
