The Suns lock in Oso Ighodaro with a $29 million extension
The center signs for three additional seasons with Phoenix, which bets on his progression while facing the long-term absence of Mark Williams.
The Phoenix Suns have reached an agreement with Oso Ighodaro to extend his contract for three seasons and 29 million dollars, according to Shams Charania of ESPN, based on information provided by Erika Ruiz, the player's agent. The extension will take effect in the 2028-29 season and will keep the center linked to the franchise until the end of the 2030-31 season.
Ighodaro, who is 24 years old, will earn 2.2 million dollars this season. Additionally, Phoenix plans to exercise its team option for the next campaign, valued at 2.4 million, before the new agreement takes effect.
From second-round pick to rotation asset
The Suns acquired Ighodaro on Draft night in 2024, after the Portland Trail Blazers selected him at the 40th pick. The Marquette product began his professional career in a secondary role, averaging 17 minutes per game during his rookie season.
His importance within the team grew last season, as he established himself as a regular in the rotation. Ighodaro averaged 6.5 points and 5.1 rebounds in 22 minutes per game, in addition to starting in 24 games. His development has convinced the franchise to secure his long-term continuity.
The extension reflects Phoenix's confidence in an interior player who has progressively gained prominence since his arrival in the NBA. With this move, the Suns also ensure stability in a position that will be particularly important at the start of the season.
An opportunity amid Mark Williams' absence
The renewal comes at a significant time for the Suns, who will have to face the absence of their starting center, Mark Williams, for several months due to shoulder surgery. This situation increases Ighodaro's responsibility, as he will need to take on a more important role in the frontcourt rotation.
Phoenix will also rely on Khaman Maluach, who will be entering his second season in the NBA. Both will have the opportunity to cover the available minutes while Williams is sidelined.
For Ighodaro, this scenario presents an opportunity to prove he can meet higher demands in the paint. His progress during the first two seasons has been enough to earn a significant extension, but the absence of the starting center could give him a new impetus to solidify his place in the Suns' future plans.
This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Los Suns blindan a Oso Ighodaro con una extensión de 29 millones de dólares
