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A former Longhorn star has found a new NBA home. On Sunday, Mo Bamba signed a one-year deal with the Toronto Raptors. The deal comes after Bamba got off to a stellar start in the G League for Salt Lake City. He will be looking to build on his success in Toronto and prove that he belongs in the NBA.
In 14 games in the G League this season, the former sixth overall pick averaged 16.5 points, 12.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 2.9 blocks, while getting nearly 30 minutes of playing time. He was a threat from three-point range and did enough to impress the Raptors coaching staff.
Although Bamba will be making his season debut when he steps on the court, he is no stranger to the NBA. In 364 NBA games, the talented 27-year-old has averaged 6.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. His career has included stints with the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Clippers, and New Orleans Pelicans. After being unable to carve out a consistent role in his previous stints, Bamba hopes to find a home in Toronto.
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When Mamba was drafted by the Magic in 2018, expectations were high. He was coming off a college career in which he was named to the All-Big 12 Second Team, the Big 12 All-Defensive Team, and the Big 12 All-Newcomer Team. Those accolades are partly why he was a fan favorite in Austin.
Through 35 games, the Raptors have been one of the best teams in the Eastern Conference. Their 19-14 record is the fourth-best mark in the East. They trail only the Pistons, Knicks, and Celtics. With Mamba in the mix, Toronto hopes to climb closer to the top of the Eastern Conference.
If Mamba can show that his success in the G League was no fluke, the Raptors will be in good hands for the rest of the regular season.
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This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Mo Bomba NBA deal
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