Undrafted rookie big man Freddie Gillespie has made a positive impression on the Toronto Raptors that has been rewarded with a multi-year contract.
The team Wednesday made the news of his signing official.
According to reports from Blake Murphy and Shams Charania of The Athletic, Gillespie's deal is for two years, with a partial guarantee for the 2021-22 season.Can't have enough, Freddies. @freddieg_33 🖋️ » https://t.co/6HQTUHweUd pic.twitter.com/zFHldUgP4K
— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) April 28, 2021
Gillespie, who first joined the Raptors on a 10-day contract on April 8, has appeared in 10 games over his first 20 days with the team, posting averages of 5.3 points and 3.6 rebounds per game.
The 6-foot-9 big man has already had a number of impressive games in a Raptors uniform, including a six-day span in which he registered a 10-point, seven-rebound performance against the Orlando Magic, followed by 10 points (on perfect 4-for-4 shooting) in a win over the Oklahoma City Thunder and a five-block outing in a win over the Brooklyn Nets.
FAST FACTS: Get to know Freddie Gillespie
Undrafted out of Baylor, Gillespie earned an opportunity with Toronto after a standout season with the Memphis Hustle in the 2021 G League bubble, where he led the entire league in total blocks.
With the Raptors, the rookie has been a fit both on and off the court, quickly earning the respect of coaches and teammates with his play and the adulation of fans and media with his personality.
Mannnn, @freddieg_33 😂 pic.twitter.com/19pYh3l3X5
— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) April 22, 2021
WATCH: The hilarious rookie initiation of Gillespie and Flynn
While reported contract details have yet to be made official, Gillespie has carved a role for himself for the remainder of the season at the very least and a legitimate opportunity to be a member of the team's frontcourt rotation for years to come.
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