Real Madrid sign Nigerian forward Chuma Okeke

Real Madrid C.F. have officially announced the signing of Chuma Okeke, the American power forward who arrives from the Cleveland Cavaliers on a two-year contract that will keep him at the club until June 30, 2027.

Okeke, 26, is set for his first taste of European basketball following a five-season NBA career with stints at the Orlando Magic, Philadelphia 76ers, and most recently Cleveland Cavaliers, who recently traded a Nigerian, amassing a total of 203 games in the league.

Okeke described himself as "a very versatile player," highlighting his ability to create plays, lead, score, and rebound qualities that made him a sought-after addition for the EuroLeague giants.

Speaking to club media, Okeke said, "It's going to be a new experience, it's something very exciting for me. What I want is to start and win, and continue to have fun, playing basketball. Over the years, I've prepared my body to withstand whatever it takes. I feel like right now it's stronger than ever, I'm in really good shape. I wouldn't say I've reached my peak, but I'm close."

During his NBA tenure, Okeke was known for his versatility and two-way impact. He averaged 6.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 0.9 steals per game, while last season he also posted solid numbers in the G League (16.7 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per contest) per Eurohoops.

Okeke's signing is considered a major boost for Real Madrid, who continue to build a formidable roster for the upcoming EuroLeague and Spanish Liga Endesa campaigns.

He joins a Real Madrid team led by head coach Sergio Scariolo and will link up with established stars such as Facundo Campazzo, Gabriel Deck, and Walter Tavares, as the club seeks to further its reputation as one of Europe’s basketball powerhouses